Empowering Civil Society for Nonviolent Conflict Transformation with State Actors

The project “Empowering Civil Society for Nonviolent Conflict Transformation with the Participation of State Actors” is implemented within the framework of the Civil Peace Service (CPS) program, which is approved and funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ).

The Civil Peace Service (CPS) program supports nonviolent conflict resolution and strengthens individuals, initiatives, and organizations in conflict-affected regions that are committed to peace and justice. CPS provides a diverse set of tools and resources, strategically combined to ensure maximum impact. A central component of the program is the temporary deployment of qualified International Peace Workers (IPWs), who work alongside partner organizations and initiatives.

Main Objectives of the Project:

• Reduce and prevent internal violence in targeted regions of Ukraine by developing and implementing alternative, nonviolent models of effective conflict resolution.
  
• Empower citizens and motivate them to engage in nonviolent action, contributing to the search for sustainable, locally driven solutions to prevent and transform conflict.
  
• Support the work of formal organizations by strengthening their ability to articulate and advocate for their interests in dialogue with state institutions.
  

Special emphasis is placed on strengthening civil society in a war-affected country by fostering active cooperation between partners and diverse communities. This collaboration promotes sustainable social change through the exchange of knowledge, experience, and best practices.

Key Activities:

Trainings for activists, social workers, psychologists, and frontline communicators:

“Practical Presentation of the I Can Manual: How to Find Support in Difficult Times”

Purpose: To introduce the “I Can” manual and teach self-help techniques based on the principles of Somatic Experiencing to manage stress in crisis situations.

“Practical Presentation of the I Can Manual: Psychology of Communication in Conflict Situations”

Purpose: To explore the psychology of communication in conflict, with a focus on emotional intelligence and constructive dialogue.

Other psychosocial support activities:

Psychological resource meetings for teenagers

Retreats for the East SOS team

Art therapy meetings as a tool for building stress resilience among internally displaced persons and activists

Support group sessions: “Self-help in Stress”

Funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ)

KURVE Wustrow

2020 – 2025

Ukraine