On October 27, 2023, Democratic Progress Institute (DPI) held an Interactive Seminar titled “Role of Arts and Culture in Conflict Resolution” in Istanbul. The discussion focused on the role of arts and art communities in peacebuilding and conflict resolution in Türkiye. Participants were able to discuss a wide variety of topics related to the subject of arts and peacebuilding, including the current situation in Türkiye, and the art community, including the challenges within the community. Other topics discussed were international examples of the role that art played in peace efforts and the lessons that can be taken from those experiences, the importance of dialogue and communication, ways that artists can reach new and wider audiences when engaging in peacebuilding art, and the importance of courage for artists when engaging in topics related to peace and conflict. Participants expressed their belief that DPI’s work could be key in bringing together the Turkish art community to be able to constructively engage in conflict resolution and peacebuilding.
Participants comprised a diverse group of artists from across Türkiye’s art community, with participants working across a wide variety of artistic mediums and areas. The group included both reoccurring and new participants to ensure continuity while increasing diversity.
We would like to express our gratitude to the speakers and participants for an engaging and timely discussion. DPI will continue to organise events with the arts and culture cadres in Türkiye to further explore the potential role arts and culture can play in conflict resolution efforts.
This event is part of a larger series of activities planned in the context of the project Supporting the Pro-Peace Agenda in Türkiye and the Region, supported by the Norwegian, Irish, and Swiss governments.
This report is available in English and Turkish and can be downloaded by clicking on the link below.