Information and communication technology for peace

Summary

The role of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) in promoting peace emerged from the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS), where ICTs were recognized as crucial for development. While initially focused on development, concerns about the digital divide and the destructive impact of conflicts on development led to exploring ICTs’ potential in conflict prevention and peacebuilding. The ICT4Peace project was initiated in 2004, supported by Swiss and Finnish leaders, to investigate whether ICTs could diffuse conflicts, assist in ending them, or stabilize post-conflict situations. Through consultations with various stakeholders, the project identified a need for research and analysis on ICTs in peacebuilding. The project, supported by experts and organizations, aims to encourage a more thoughtful consideration of ICTs’ role in fostering peace before, during, and after conflicts.