Establishing a Permanent Framework for Dialogue to Strengthen Social Cohesion in Beni

The Commission on Justice, Peace and Safeguarding of Creation (CJPSC) recently hosted a forum on community social cohesion in Beni. The event provided a platform for collective reflection on conflict dynamics in the region and the vital role of community leaders and civil society organizations in fostering unity.

Participants also explored the importance of communication and leadership in strengthening cohesion, with particular emphasis on non-violent communication and strategies to consolidate peaceful coexistence.

The gathering brought together community leaders, faith-based representatives, civil society stakeholders, and women’s organizations.

Participants deepened their understanding on issues related to social cohesion and conflict analysis, while strengthening their skills in communication and leadership.

At the end of the forum, stakeholders agreed to set up a permanent community dialogue framework. This mechanism will make it possible to evaluate actions related to social cohesion, launch joint initiatives such as awareness campaigns, and actively involve religious leaders in peace building efforts. Participants agreed to reconvene in the coming months to formalize the framework.

For Francis Idumbo, Program Assistant in charge of Monitoring and Evaluation at CJPSC, this framework constitutes a genuine mechanism for bringing together different segments of the population and communities. It also provides for monitoring and technical support, including capacity-building for actors, and the provision of tools for peaceful conflict resolution.

Organizers hope that this initiative can be extended to other regions facing similar realities, such as the Ituri province, particularly in Bunia.