Bridges Not Borders: Youth Voices for Peace
Transforming division into dialogue, one youth voice at a time. Join us in building paths to peace.
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Cyrus Vahabzadeh
Cyrus Vahabzadeh is a globally minded student passionate about fostering dialogue across divides. A student in Institut Le Rosey, Cyrus is deeply committed to understanding the forces that shape conflict and cooperation between nations. Their work often explores themes of identity, nationalism, and peacebuilding, with a worldwide focus. Through Bridges Not Borders, Cyrus aims to create meaningful conversations that bridge cultural, ideological, and political gaps, encouraging collaboration rather than confrontation. His goal is to inspire others to see difference not as a barrier, but as an opportunity for shared growth and mutual understanding.
Project Overview
Paths to Peace: Youth Workshops
Discover "Bridges Not Borders," a three-part workshop series designed for young people. In Autumn 2025, we're creating a powerful platform to foster understanding and turn division into meaningful dialogue. Join us to explore the foundations of peacebuilding and empower your voice.
Part 1: Understanding the Roots
Explore how history and unresolved trauma fuel distrust and cycles of violence. True peace-building begins with acknowledging each group's past, fostering empathy, and creating a foundation for shared understanding. This session will equip you with essential tools for sensitive dialogue.
1
History & Trauma
Understand how historical events and past traumas contribute to current conflicts and societal divisions.
2
Acknowledgement
Recognise the importance of acknowledging collective histories and shared grievances as a first step towards healing.
3
Foundation for Peace
Learn how this understanding forms the bedrock for effective peace-building efforts.
Part 2: Voices for Peace with Alain Werner
Join us for an inspiring speech by Alain Werner from Civitas Maxima, held on 1st October at LE ROSEY. Discover how global justice initiatives directly impact local peace work, empowering victims and strengthening civil society worldwide.
Werner will share insights from his extensive experience in human rights and international law.
Prosecuting alleged war criminals outside international courts: challenges and perspectives
At the time where International justice and the International Criminal Court (ICC) have never been so much under attack, Alain Werner will talk about the challenges and perspectives of prosecuting alleged war criminals outside international courts, using legal tools such as universal jurisdiction. He will mention the first ever war crimes and crimes against humanity conviction in front of the Swiss Federal Criminal Court in Bellinzona, where he himself represented as a lawyer several plaintiffs. But Alain will also talk also about his experience in other contexts, including two trials of Heads of State for International crimes (Charles Taylor and Hissène Habré), and the first trial of the Khmer Rouge in Cambodia. 
Civitas Maxima: Mission
Alain Werner's address will highlight Civitas Maxima's critical mission and guiding values, demonstrating a holistic approach to justice and peace. Their work is a testament to the power of sustained effort and unwavering principles.
Support Victims
Providing comprehensive assistance to those affected by international crimes.
Document Crimes
Meticulously recording abuses to ensure accountability and historical truth.
Litigate & Assist
Pursuing legal action and supporting authorities in bringing perpetrators to justice.
Strengthen Civil Society
Building local capacity to advocate for human rights and sustainable peace.
Values Guiding Our Work
Civitas Maxima operates on a bedrock of strong ethical values, ensuring their work is both effective and just. These principles guide every action, from victim support to international litigation, fostering trust and credibility.
Integrity & Humility
Perseverance & Independence
Non-Discrimination
Victim-Centred
Part 3: Film & Reflection - 'The Deal'
Engage with "The Deal," a compelling film premiering March 2025 in Switzerland. This documentary explores the April 2015 U.S.–Iran negotiations facilitated by a Swiss mediator in Geneva. Following the screening, participate in a guided reflection on the intricate art of diplomacy and the powerful role of youth agency in global affairs.
Key Tools for Peace-building
Our workshops provide practical tools to empower you as a peace-builder. Learn how to foster understanding, manage conflict constructively, and build bridges within your own communities and beyond.
Building Bridges, Not Walls
Techniques for overcoming divisions and fostering connections between diverse groups.
Respectful Dialogue
Guidelines for creating safe spaces, active listening, and finding common ground.
Youth as Peace Builders
Empowering youth through dialogue, art, and mediation to lead peace initiatives.
Local Actions for Global Peace
Discover tangible ways to implement peace-building in your daily life. From fostering intercultural understanding to advocating for justice, every action contributes to a larger movement.
Intercultural Sessions
Organise events to promote understanding and appreciation across cultures.
Inclusive Service
Participate in community service that embraces and benefits everyone.
Advocacy & Peer Education
Speak up for justice and educate your peers on peace-building principles.
Our Vision: Build Bridges, Not Walls
Our goal is to foster dialogue and build peace, not merely to debate. We envision a future where youth lead the way in creating empathetic, safe, and interconnected communities. Join us in this crucial mission.
Bridges
  • Foster empathy & understanding
  • Encourage cooperation & shared goals
  • Create safe spaces for dialogue
  • Link people & communities
  • Lead to sustainable peace
Walls
  • Fuel fear, mistrust & stereotypes
  • Entrench divisions & isolation
  • Prevent communication & mutual learning
  • Legitimize defensiveness
Take concrete next steps: join initiatives, stay informed, and advocate for justice. Your voice matters.
Part 4: Guidelines for Peaceful Conversations
Promoting understanding and cooperation starts young. At Institut Le Rosey, we introduce our juniors to essential guidelines for fostering peaceful conversations, laying the groundwork for a future where dialogue triumphs over division. These principles are vital for navigating disagreements respectfully and building stronger, more empathetic communities.
Practice Active Listening
Truly hear and understand others by focusing without interruption, asking clarifying questions, and reflecting on what's been said. Your goal is to comprehend, not just to respond.
Cultivate Empathy
Step into another person's shoes. Try to understand situations from their perspective, recognising their feelings and experiences, even if they differ vastly from your own.
Disagree Respectfully
Express your opinions calmly and constructively. Focus on the ideas and issues at hand rather than attacking individuals, always avoiding personal insults or aggressive language.
Seek Common Ground
Actively look for shared interests, values, or goals that can unite people. Building on these foundations strengthens relationships and opens pathways for collaboration.
By embracing these guidelines, juniors at Le Rosey learn to engage in meaningful dialogue, transforming potential conflicts into opportunities for growth and mutual respect within their diverse environment.
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