The Commonwealth Foundation and Prince Claus Fund for Culture and Development have launched a three year programme addressing the often-neglected support for cultural expression before, during and after periods of conflict.
This joint initiative will see a series of culture-based interventions rolled-out in partnership with local arts and culture organisations, starting with a series of grants awards, announced today. Identified as countries that have undergone recent experiences of conflict and social upheaval, the four countries of focus are: Pakistan, Rwanda, Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe. In addition to grant giving, the programme will help build partnership networks, support academic research and oversee the development of a publication addressing issues of conflict.
Deputy Director of the Commonwealth Foundation, Vijay Krishnarayan commented: We are extremely pleased to be launching 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 commented: Culture is a basic need. 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 generous 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 recognises the valuable contribution the Pamberi Trusts 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.
Jennifer Sobol
Programme Officer Culture
Commonwealth Foundation
Post published in: News