Multistakeholder Dialogue Explores Local Solutions for Peaceful Coexistence Amid Global Displacement Crisis

On November 26, the University for Peace (UPEACE) and UNHCR in collaboration with the Geneva Peacebuilding Platform as a strategic partner, hosted a high-level dialogue on « Local Solutions Towards Peaceful Coexistence ». Over 70 organizations gathered in Geneva for the first of five regional dialogues focused on addressing the inclusion of forced displacement in peacebuilding processes. The discussions emphasized the urgent need for multistakeholder collaboration to tackle the challenges posed by global displacement. Key speakers, including Dr. Anne Hammerstad and Prof. Fadi Daou, highlighted the critical role of local actors in providing effective, grassroots solutions for peaceful coexistence, reconciliation, and social cohesion, with a particular focus on the importance of refugee leadership and women’s roles in peacebuilding.

The session opened with remarks from Ms. Ruvendrini Menikdiwela, UNHCR, Assistant High Commissioner for Protection, and Prof. Francisco Rojas Aravena, Rector of UPEACE, who both underscored the urgency of strengthening coordination and broadening support to address the needs of forcibly displaced and stateless persons. Dr. Annyssa Bellal, GPP Executive Director, highlighted the challenges resulting from the blurring of war and peace, noting that clear-cut distinctions between the two no longer exist. She emphasized that peacebuilding efforts to ensure the protection and safe return of refugees and IDPs, should occur before, during and after episodes of armed violence and be grounded in multiple legal frameworks, such as refugee law, human rights law and IHL, which prohibits the forced displacement of the population during armed conflicts.

The first session of the day focused on « Local Solutions Towards Peaceful Coexistence & Multistakeholder Partnerships », showcasing a range of effective practices and initiatives promoting peaceful co-existence, social cohesion, and reconciliation among displaced communities. Experts discussed the influence of various actors—local governments, civil society, international organizations, and displaced persons themselves—in driving successful solutions. Participants shared real-world examples of how multistakeholder approaches can foster dialogue and reconciliation, ultimately contributing to stronger, more peaceful communities. 

The second session, which delved into « Building & Maintaining Just, Inclusive and Peaceful Societies »,  addressed opportunities and challenges in the meaningful participation of refugees, returnees, internally displaced persons (IDPs), and stateless individuals. Special attention was given to gender and youth-specific needs, emphasizing the importance of cross-sector collaboration in creating environments where all individuals, regardless of their status, can contribute to peaceful coexistence. The event concluded with a summary of key insights and actionable recommendations, leaving participants with a shared commitment to fostering a more inclusive and just world. 

The dialogue, co-moderated by Ms. Şafak Pavey, Senior Adviser at UNHCR, and Dr. David Fernández Puyana, Ambassador of UPEACE to the United Nations, offered a unique opportunity to deepen understanding of local solutions in the context of forced displacement. 

The series aims to bridge gaps between humanitarian, development, and peacebuilding actors, with a focus on refugee-led organizations and the role of local communities in crafting sustainable, inclusive solutions. The outcomes of these dialogues will contribute to the High-Level Officials Meeting in December 2025.