A professor emeritus at the University of Notre Dame has won the 36th Niwano Peace Prize for his work as a mediator, negotiator, peacebuilding practitioner, trainer and consultant.
Dr. John Paul Lederach, professor emeritus of International Peacebuilding at the Kroc Institute for Peace Studies, will receive the award from the Niwano Peace Foundation
The prize, which includes an award certificate, a medal and 20 million yen, is awarded to honor and encourage individuals and organizations that have contributed to promoting inter-religious cooperation and furthering the cause of world peace.
Lederach has worked in war-torn settings like Colombia, Nepal, Northern Ireland and Somalia, particularly in communities affected by decades of violence
“[Lederach] has helped support and encourage evolving peace processes, give voice to those on the margins of society and empower ordinary citizens to transform ongoing and emerging conflict in a healthy and positive way,” the Niwano Peace Prize Committee said.
“[Lederach’s] contribution on conflict transformation through his teaching, training, practicing and his own organizational network has given tremendous inspiration and courage to peace activists and practitioners around the world.”
The award will be presented to Lederach in Tokyo on May 8.
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