Peace Brigades International (PBI) is an international non-governmental organization that has been promoting nonviolent conflict transformation and the protection of human rights defenders since 1981. Founded by a group of nonviolence activists, including Narayan Desai, George Willoughby, and Charles Walker, PBI is based on the philosophical principles of Mahatma Gandhi and Martin Luther King Jr.[2][3][4].
The mission of PBI is to create space for peace and defend human rights. The organization believes that lasting solutions to conflicts cannot be imposed from the outside but must be based on the capacity and desires of the local population. PBI avoids intervening in the internal affairs of the organizations it supports or directly interfering in their work[1][3][4].
PBI provides protection, support, and recognition for local human rights defenders working in areas of repression and conflict who have requested assistance. The organization employs various methods, including:
PBI works in a variety of countries, including Colombia, Guatemala, Honduras, Indonesia, Kenya, Mexico, and Nepal. The organization has a long history of supporting human rights defenders in conflict areas and has made significant contributions to the creation of a global network for peace promotion and human rights.
PBI is also committed to specific initiatives, such as supporting women and marginalized human rights defenders, developing self-care and safety manuals for human rights defenders, and promoting Transitional Justice in countries affected by conflicts[2][3][4].
PBI is a team-based organization that uses consensus-based decision-making processes. The structure includes field projects, country groups, and an international office, all delegated by the General Assembly. The organization is non-hierarchical and places great importance on horizontal relationships and processes[1][2][4].
PBI has received numerous awards for its work, including the Martin Ennals Award for Human Rights Defenders, the International Pfeffer Peace Prize, and the Aachen International Peace Prize. These recognitions reflect PBI's significant contribution to the promotion of peace and human rights worldwide[2].
Peace Brigades International is a life-saving international presence in conflict and repression areas and a powerful global network that protects human rights defenders. Through its nonviolent philosophy and comprehensive support measures, PBI significantly contributes to creating a more peaceful and just worldview.
