Waging Peace for a Brighter Future

Peace Programs

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Peace Programs around the World

The Carter Center’s peace programs strengthen freedom and
democracy in nations worldwide, securing for people the political and
civil rights that are the foundation of just and peaceful societies.

Building on the legacy of President and Mrs. Carter, we tackle today’s challenges with proven programs and trusted partners, furthering avenues for peace in Africa, the Middle East, the Americas, and Asia.

Some of our peacebuilding and democracy initiatives include:

  • Election observation and monitoring around the world, including the United States.
  • Projects that strengthen rule of law and access to justice. 
  • Efforts that thwart corruption and advance citizen oversight of government by supporting access to information.
  • Forums supporting human rights defenders.
  • Efforts to achieve more equitable treatment of women and girls.
  • The building of bridges between civil society organizations and governments to strengthen participatory rights for citizens.
  • Development of a methodology for observing electronic voting and standards for democratic elections in collaboration with the United Nations and other election observation groups.
  • Fomenting of dialogue to encourage peace around the world.
  • Use of data to inform decision-making on topics from information integrity to demining.

We believe all people are entitled to basic human rights. When people have these rights, they feel a sense of justice and self-worth. These are the seeds of peace.

— Jimmy Carter
Former U.S. President and Co-founder of The Carter Center
Waging Peace: A Legacy

Waging Peace: A Legacy

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Focus Areas

Since 1982, The Carter Center has shown that creating a world at
peace is a very possible journey, one step at a time.

Conflict Resolution

In pursuit of lasting peace, we create spaces for tough conversations to resolve conflicts around the world. Because we are not tied to any government, we can step in when official diplomacy falters.

Democracy

Working alongside ordinary citizens, we help strengthen democracies. Fair elections ensure that all voices are heard and governments are accountable to the people they serve.

Human Rights

President Carter envisioned a world where everyone's rights were protected regardless of nationality, religion, race, or gender. Today, we support those fighting for human rights, freedoms, and equal justice under the law.

Rule of Law

Access to information is a fundamental right that improves lives, communities, and governance. We help citizens understand their rights and services available to them while encouraging governments to be more responsive.

Additional Initiatives

China Focus

President Carter established diplomatic relations with the People’s Republic of China in 1979. Today, we build on that legacy through research, workshops, and events to promote dialogue and critical reflection on U.S.-China relations.

Inform Women, Transform Lives Project

We’re partnering with leaders of cities throughout the world to raise awareness about women's right to get information from their governments. We empower women and help cities promote resources and essential services.

Latin America and Caribbean Focus

We are a registered civil society partner of the Organization of American States and have worked in Latin America and the Caribbean for decades to strengthen democracy, build peace, and promote government accountability.

In the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Moises Ngoy (far right, with some of his children) received training from The Carter Center that helped him and his neighbors negotiate with a mining company.

75+

Since our founding in 1982, The Carter Center has undertaken peace activities in more than 75 countries.

Carter Center around the World(opens in new window)

Research, Publications & News

Read the latest Carter Center publications highlighting strategies, research, and progress toward peace.

Spotlight on Peace

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