Technology and Conflict Examined at “Build Peace” Conference

Technology is altering how we engage with the world, offering new avenues for social change. On April 4-5, 2014, IPI was part of the Build Peace Conference, which gathered practitioners, activists, and technologists from around the world to share experiences and ideas on using technology for peacebuilding and transforming conflict transformation.

Over the course of two days, the participants explored how information and communications technologies, games, networking platforms, and other tools can enhance the impact of a broad range of peacebuilding, social cohesion and peace advocacy initiatives. Three panels discussed the use of technology for conflict analysis (chaired by IPI Senior Director of Research Francesco Mancini); the designing of peacebuilding projects that utilize technology; and the use of technology for impact evaluation.

In addition to IPI, other partners in the initiative included Blue Nile Lotus, The Hive at the World Bank, ICT for Peace Foundation, MercyCorps, MIT Center for Civic Media, New Markets Advisors, UNDP, USAID, and USIP. The conference was held at the MIT Media Lab, Cambridge, MA.