Mindanao Peacebuilding Institute

The Mindanao Peacebuilding Institute (MPI) is an Asian training institute grounded in the Mindanao, Philippines, context that provides a space for people of diverse backgrounds to gather together, share and learn in a safe environment where all viewpoints are encouraged and respected. MPI is a resource for peacebuilders: providing skills, conducting research and building solidarity within the Asia-Pacific Region. MPI was established in the year 2000 through the collective effort of the Catholic Agency for Overseas Development (CAFOD), Catholic Relief Services (CRS), and Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) to bring together peacebuilders of diverse cultures from the Asia-Pacific Region to participate in its annual peacebuilding training. Since its inception, MPI has been a meeting point of peacebuilders from countries such as Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Cambodia, China, Fiji Islands, Germany, India, Indonesia, Japan, Jordan, Kenya, Laos, Myanmar, Nepal, Nigeria, Pakistan, Papua New Guinea, Sierra Leone, Solomon Islands, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Timor Leste, USA, Vietnam, and the Philippines. Aside from gaining new practical skills, many participants ascribe equal value to the bonding, friendships, and solidarity that are created among peace advocates from many different countries. Indeed, MPI has become a venue where participants strengthen their commitment to peacebuilding through continuing association with peer practitioners. In its desire to be a wellspring of peace processes and initiatives, MPI has created a space where peacebuilders meet in mind, heart, and spirit to keep abreast of the challenges that the issues of peace and justice present. In a professional and personal way, MPI, through its programs, offers opportunities by which the journey of peace becomes real in the lives of peacebuilders and their communities. In November 2009, MPI became an independent legal foundation in the Philippines. For as long as stories of peace unfold and communities struggle with conflict and violence, MPI will stand fast in its mission - training, empowering, and celebrating peace, justice and nonviolent social transformation throughout Asia-Pacific and the world.