CITIZENS TALK FOR PEACE: How can the voices of ordinary citizens help shape peace in South Sudan?

On Peacemakers this week, we speak to Hiroko Hirahara, Chief of the UNMISS Civil Affairs Division, about the Citizens’ Talk for Peace Forums, an initiative aimed at taking dialogue closer to communities and giving citizens a stronger voice in peacebuilding.

We discuss how the forums will bring together communities, authorities, civil society, women, youth and other stakeholders to identify local concerns, build trust and develop practical solutions to conflict.

We also look at how citizens’ recommendations can be translated into action and contribute to social cohesion, reconciliation and the protection of civilians.