Annual Report 2025

Throughout the history of Interpeace, there have been moments when the assumptions underpinning our work have been tested. The past year was one of them.

Interpeace was founded on the principles of trust, fundamental human values, and equality. Similarly, throughout our careers and as part of Interpeace, we have operated within an international system built on the conviction that cooperation, dialogue, and shared rules offer the best path towards peace. This year, we witnessed this system under unprecedented strain. Financial resources were cut, evidence side-lined, and experts silenced. Attention shifted from reponse to power plays. At times, we questioned whether peacebuilding is part of the past and transactionalism the new global order.

Yet, every time the question arrived, the answer was standing right next to it. Across contexts, we saw local leaders, women, youth, civil society actors, and public authorities choose dialogue over division and cooperation over confrontation. They were not the ones needing convincing that durable peace, just societies, and inclusive processes are possible. For communities impacted by conflict, peace is a necessity.

As addressing past grievances and responding to immediate challenges, we also looked ahead. We began developing a new framework to act as our compass for the new, volatile normal. The outcome, our Strategic Framework 2026-2030: Navigating Political and Civic Space – Peacebuilding in an Era of Heightened Instability reflects realities, while remaining anchored in the principled DNA of our organisation.

As you read this report, you will encounter examples of communities strengthening social cohesion, institutions becoming more peace responsive, and local actors preventing violence before it escalates. The figures present measurable impact, yet also carry within the immeasurable: durable steps taken to build credible peace.

We thank you for making our work possible and taking these steps with us.

With resolve and appreciation,