The Commonwealth Foundation and Prince Claus Fund for Culture and Development jointly initiate a programmed that addresses the cultural needs during and after conflict; the programme initiate with grant award to Pakistan, Rwanda, Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe
This initiative will see a series of culture-based interventions rolled-out in partnership with local arts and culture organizations, starting with a series of grants awards.
Countries Pakistan, Rwanda, Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe identified as countries that have undergone recent experiences of conflict and social upheaval. The programme not only focus on grant giving, the programme will help build partnership networks, support academic research and oversee the development of a publication addressing issues of conflict.
The Deputy Director of Commonwealth Foundation Vijay Krishnarayan said; “We are extremely pleased to be beginning this programme in partnership with the Prince Claus Fund. We believe that as much as cultural differences can be summoned in conflicts, culture can also be turned to for resolutions. Our aim through these activities is to help foster the positive development of post-conflict societies by strengthening communities through stimulating arts and culture and further encouraging their peaceful development.
Christa Meindersma, Director of the Prince Claus Fund added “Culture is a basic need.”
He also said “this becomes evident among people that are unable to express themselves because of economic hardship, social discrimination or political repression. In conflict and post conflict situations people demand freedom of expression, mutual understanding and a dignified life. Cultural expression can play a role in building a hopeful prospect, bringing people together, reflecting on the sources of conflict and stimulating the exchange of ideas. The Prince Claus Fund is pleased to address these needs in partnership with the Commonwealth Foundation.”
The Commonwealth Foundation and Prince Claus Fund acknowledge the charitable funding from the British Council in Zimbabwe which has allowed support for a project run by the Pamberi Trust. Jill Coates, Country Director, British Council Zimbabwe commented: “The Culture and Conflict programme highlights the important role that civil society can play in addressing issues of conflict through culture. The British Council recognizes the important contribution the Pamberi Trust’s project will make through engaging with young people in Zimbabwe, and is delighted to be able to support its development.”
Acknowledging receipt of funding, Paul Brickhill, Director of the Pamberi Trust commented: “The Culture and Conflict programme at Pamberi Trust – called Mindblast! – is geared towards the incredibly vibrant youth arts community in Zimbabwe: slam poets and film makers, musicians and writers, photographers and graphic artists, a community of hundreds. It looks to the future. It creates a platform in which creative young thinkers in our society can dare to imagine their own future, and give voice to the values and legacy they want to live by. It builds a network that links the creative, spiritual and aesthetic qualities embodied in the arts with peace and democracy. At this fragile moment in our history, it is critical.”
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