From Research to Action: Activating Strategies for Violence

This lecture will present findings from research examining various aspects of urban violence in light of the implications of COVID-19. The areas of research were determined directly by members of Peace in Our Cities, a network of 18-cities and 30 organizations striving towards the ambition of a 50% reduction in urban violence by 2030. The research focused on the following six areas (1) violence against women; (2) violence in informal settlements; (3) violence associated with organized crime/criminal groups; (4) city and national policy alignment; (5) social media and the digital space; and (6) relationships between communities and law enforcement. These six areas represent priorities for cities that are struggling to confront changes to violence dynamics and their ability to respond given the pandemic.

Beyond presenting the research findings, the lecture will discuss how the findings of the research are being actively integrated into city planning and policy discussions, including by city government and local civil society organizations. In doing so, the lecture will bridge research and action. It will explore how cities can enhance public safety and public health simultaneously, and in a way that collectively works to build peace across city networks across the globe.