The situation in the South Caucasus, especially after the war between Russia and Georgia in 2008, threatens international security and causes suffering. UPF's South Caucasus Peace Initiative addresses three types of regional challenges:

• ideological, reflected in the Georgia/Russia struggle which is, in a way, about different concepts of democracy
• interreligious, reflected in relations between Muslim Azerbaijan and neighboring Christian Armenia
• humanitarian, reflected in the widespread social problems created by years of conflict

Goals: Build understanding among the diverse groups in the region, promote collaboration among governmental and non-governmental (including faith-based) organizations and the private sector

Methods: Consultations, people-to-people diplomacy through service, sports, and cultural exchanges

For more background, click here. Read about programs in Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Georgia; see also UPF-Russia's grassroots initiative: "Urals - Georgia: We'll Be Friends."

Insights about peacebuilding

Eurasia Peace Council: "South Caucasus Peace Appeal"
H.E. Rahim Huseynov, Former Prime Minister, Azerbaijan: "Peace and Security in the South Caucasus"
Dr. Dalila Khorava, President, Aid to Refugees, Georgia: "The Way to Happiness Is Paved with Good Deeds"