The Global Peace Retreat & Conclave in Baku, Azerbaijan, brought together a diverse group of peacebuilders from September 18-22, 2024. Participants from India, Pakistan, Nepal, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Oman, and Azerbaijan joined in person, while others from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka connected virtually. This unique blend of cultures created a rich environment for sharing experiences and building lasting connections.

Key highlights included the “Let’s Collab” session, which launched a collaborative book project documenting local peace initiatives and introduced “Care Commerce,” a program promoting trade and handicrafts to support peace efforts. Participants engaged in insightful discussions on various peacebuilding approaches, gaining valuable knowledge from each other’s expertise.

The retreat unfolded with a warm “Pen Friends Activity” and dinner, fostering a welcoming atmosphere. A reflective inauguration by Buddhist Guru Lama Phurba Singhe from Nepal set the tone for the days ahead. Sessions explored navigating difficult conversations, the impact of fake news, and inspiring case studies of grassroots peacebuilding. The final day focused on Azerbaijan’s role in conflict resolution and the importance of women in peacebuilding, concluding with a cybersecurity discussion and certificate distribution. The retreat left participants energized and committed to building a more peaceful world.