Glencree Centre for Peace and Reconciliation Launches NextGen4Peace Project to Empower Leaders in Peacebuilding

The Glencree Centre for Peace and Reconciliation is delighted to announce the launch of NextGen4Peace, a new cross-border initiative designed to empower people and communities with the skills, confidence, and networks needed to engage in dialogue, mediation, and conflict resolution.

The launch event will take place on Wednesday, 10th June at 2:00pm in Belfast, bringing together key stakeholders, community leaders, and young people to mark the beginning of this significant initiative.

The NextGen4Peace project is supported by PEACEPLUS, a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB) and runs from October 2025 to September 2029.

Delivered in partnership with Mediation Northern Ireland, NextGen4Peace will bring together people from across Northern Ireland and the border counties of Ireland, with a particular focus on those from marginalised communities. The programme aims to strengthen relationships, foster mutual understanding, and support the development of a more peaceful and inclusive society.

Commenting on the upcoming launch, Naoimh McNamee, the CEO of Glencree Centre for Peace and Reconciliation said:

“NextGen4Peace represents an important investment in the next generation of peacebuilders. By equipping young people with the tools and support they need, we are helping to build stronger, more resilient communities for the future.”

The NextGen4Peace project aims to strengthen cross-community and intercultural relationships across Northern Ireland and six border counties of the Republic of Ireland by:

• Delivering tailored training programmes in conflict resolution, dialogue, mediation, and restorative practices, with a particular focus on supporting marginalised communities
• Establishing 3–5 key “anchor sites” across the region to serve as hubs for training delivery and mediation support
• Piloting a community-based mediation service model, while supporting and developing a new cohort of trainee mediators
• Training and supporting 30 mediators and dialogue facilitators from marginalised communities, helping to nurture the next generation of peacebuilders and a strong community of practice
• Delivering conflict resolution initiatives within school communities, in partnership with regional associate partners, to promote positive community relations among young people

Through these activities, NextGen4Peace will contribute to building stronger relationships, enhancing mutual understanding, and supporting long-term peace and reconciliation across the region.

The Glencree Centre for Peace and Reconciliation, together with its project partner Mediation Northern Ireland, gratefully acknowledges the support of the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB) through the PEACEPLUS Programme.