For 30 years, the Cologne-based organisation Pro Peace has supported individuals and initiatives around the world who stand up to violence and work to build lasting peace.
Four years after Germany’s proclaimed “Zeitenwende”, the longing for peace remains strong. Yet there is deep disagreement about how to achieve it. How can peace grow again in a world marked by rearmament and polarisation, by eroding rights and rising authoritarianism? Today more than ever, it is clear that peace grows from the ground up — through the courage of individuals, the strength of civic initiatives, and the power of civil society.
Together with the Cologne Adult Education Centre (VHS), Pro Peace warmly invites you to an evening designed to inspire, challenge, and encourage thoughtful exchange.
We will explore what citizens and policymakers in Germany can learn from Pro Peace’s international peace partners — and how these lessons might help address violence and division within our own society. The evening will feature perspectives from experienced peace activists working in Ukraine, Palestine & Israel, and Germany.
As we celebrate our 30th anniversary, we look forward to welcoming you for an engaging and inspiring conversation. Please find the programme below.
Date: 5 March 2026 | 5:30–9:30 pm
Location: Cologne VHS Forum, Museum am Neumarkt
Livestream: The event will be streamed live. If you plan to attend online, please register via the same link. The access details will be emailed to registered participants shortly before the event. Please note: The event will be held partly in German and partly in English and will not be interpreted in the live stream.
Languages: The event will be held in German and English. Simultaneous interpretation will be available on site.
In cooperation with the Cologne Adult Education Centre (VHS)
Programme
5:30 pm Welcome Remarks
- Caroline Wiegand, Member of the Executive Board, Pro Peace
- Derya Karadag, Mayor of the City of Cologne
5:45 pm How Can Peace Grow Again?
Insights from peacebuilding work in Ukraine and Palestine and Israel
- Chen Alon, Co-founder, Combatants for Peace
- Alexander Mauz, Chair of the Executive Board, Pro Peace
- Angela Starovoytova, Project Lead, Empathy Ukraine Network
- Moderator: Hannah Sanders, Manager for Political Communications & Media, Pro Peace
6:45 pm Break & informal exchange (dates and water will be provided for iftar)
7:00 pm Four Years After the “Zeitenwende”
German debates — taking action for peace
- Christoph Bongard, Head of Communications & Policy, Pro Peace
- Dr. Dalilah Shemia-Goeke, Executive Director of the German Federation for Social Defence and former Pro Peace practicioner
- Zeynep Karaosman, Palestinians and Jews for Peace, Cologne
- Moderator: Hannah Sanders, Manager for Political Communications & Media, Pro Peace
8:00 pm Closing Remarks
- Caroline Wiegand, Member of the Executive Board, Pro Peace
8:15 pm Reception and conversation with the speakers
