International Alert has partnered with a leading digital and internet-based radio station, Passion for the Planet, in order to broaden the public’s understanding of peacebuilding.
Over the course of the next 12 months the station, which broadcasts to an audience primarily interested in environmental and health issues, will be featuring a series of interview clips that highlight both the need and the response of peacebuilders in conflict-affected countries across the world.
And it comes at a time when the eyes of the world will be on how the richest nations meet the challenge of assisting the most vulnerable countries adapt to the changes in their environments that are already occurring, starting with the United Nations Copenhagen Conference that is designed to lead to a new international deal to tackle climate change.
Chris Underwood, Head of Communications at International Alert, explained:
"Alert revealed in our Climate of Conflict report in 2007 that 46 countries – home to 2.7 billion people – are currently at high risk of experiencing violent conflict as a result of climate-driven change interacting with existing factors. We need to make the case for serious action both at the Copenhagen Conference and beyond."
"It’s also important that we make the case for peacebuilding more generally, so we need to use every means at our disposal to reach the general public. We see this partnership as an innovative way of doing that."
The series starts in July 2009 and will run for 12 months. The on air features are supported by information on the web site including additional facts and case studies.
Passion for the Planet’s Programme Director Kenny Stevens said,
"We will be focusing on positive examples of peacebuilding and what can be learnt from countries and groups that have successfully overcome terrible conflicts and found a way to live together harmoniously. This is an important part of what Passion for the Planet is about – helping people to live more fulfilling lives."
More information can be found at www.passionfortheplanet.com. Passion for the Planet broadcasts on DAB radio and via the Internet.
