It was great to welcome Andrew to the ‘organised’ chaos of the RCMS weekly meeting that covers seamlessly, board actions, save the dates, RCG5 club representations, fundraising ideas, and general catch-ups on how we all are! All while having yummy bagels and coffee, talk about multi-taskers!!!
Andrew’s presentation identified Rotary International partnership with the Institute of Economics and Peace (IEP)who are an internationally renowned think tank, experts in peace, conflict and risk with a global mission, influence, and impact. They are changing the way the world understands peace through research, consulting, and training. IEP 2024 Global Peace Index data identifies New Zealand as the 4th Country in the world recognised as ‘state of peace’, which is impressive. Check out the link to learn more:
Institute for Economics & Peace | Experts in Peace, Conflict and Risk (economicsandpeace.org).
This partnership also aligns with The Rotary Foundation (TRF) 1st Area of focus “Peacebuilding and Conflict Resolution”, where NZ start (mostly):
▪ From the condition of Negative Peace in NZ - Absence of direct violence. Absence of fear of violence
▪ Positive Peace respects everyone in our community - Attitudes, institutions, and structures that sustain peace
▪ Positive Peace may be the ultimate “hand up” for communities
▪ Positive Peace minimizes the cost of conflict, develops a productive and dynamic society
▪ Positive Peace as the basis for a Rotary Clubs operating strategy is a foundation to coordinate individual (existing and new) projects into a comprehensive community strategy
What is the “Call to Action” for the RCMS? We will do:
· The workshop activity to overlay our current projects onto the 8 Pillars of Positive Peace
Then investigate the opportunity to:
· Sign up as a Peacebuilder Club (committee of 2 + 2 peace projects per year)
· Align with the RCMS Strategic Plan 2024-2025
·
Potential
for RCG5 activation perhaps…?
