The 2nd Geneva Peace Week will be held from 16-20 November. The event highlights the fact that everyone – institutions and individuals - has a role to play in peacebuilding and resolving conflict. The week also focuses on substantive and original contributions to diverse peace processes around the world.

IOM is organizing a side event around an exhibit at 6.00 pm on Monday 16th November at the United Nations in Geneva. “A Time to Forgive” will examine the role of forgiveness in crisis resolution.

The event focuses on the aftermath of the inter-communal violence that ripped apart the Central African Republic in December 2013. It features testimonials from two demobilized combatants from the opposing Seleka and Anti-Balaka factions.

The adversaries formed a bond following their demobilization and shared their story with IOM’s Florence Kim, showing how it is possible to rebuild trust and dialogue and to make peace.

“A Time to Forgive” allows you to listen to their testimonials in Sango, the main language in the country, and reproduces the intensity of the interview and the weight of the intermittent silences.

“When I asked them if it was possible to forgive, there was a long silence and tragic memories seemed to fill the air. I wondered if my question was inappropriate. Finally, the ex-Seleka fighter looked at me and said: “Oui, on peut pardoner,” says Kim.

‘A Time to Forgive’ is an opportunity to participate in this journey of reconciliation between two former enemies and join them on their path to peace.

 You can find more information on Geneva Peace Week here.