Rotary International partnered with the Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP) in 2017 to promote Positive Peace—a holistic approach to building resilient, peaceful societies. In line with this mission, the Central New York region has launched a dedicated Peace subcommittee and is proud to introduce the Rotary Positive Peace Academy.
This free, online program empowers individuals to become peacebuilders by understanding the foundations of Positive Peace. It supports Rotary’s mission to foster goodwill and cross-border collaboration.
The IEP, founded in 2007 by Australian entrepreneur Steve Killelea, is a globally respected think tank that researches peace and its economic impact. Its work influences global policy and peacebuilding through innovative, data-driven models.
IEP distinguishes between:
- Negative Peace: Absence of violence or fear of violence.
- Positive Peace: The presence of systems, attitudes, and institutions that sustain peaceful societies.
Positive Peace promotes ecological health, social equity, well-being, and economic growth—creating a cycle where peace and prosperity reinforce each other.
Rotary and IEP align Rotary’s seven areas of focus with IEP’s eight pillars of Positive Peace to drive global and local change. Members can apply these principles in their communities to foster lasting peace.
About the Academy
2 hours | Online | Free Certification
Learn how to:
- Define and measure peace
- Understand the eight pillars of Positive Peace
- Build long-term societal resilience
- Explore global Positive Peace projects
Includes 12 on-demand video lessons and interactive content
The Rotary Peace Fellowship is a prestigious, fully funded program that equips global leaders with academic training, practical experience, and international networking to advance peace and development. Supported by Rotary’s global membership, the program is a cornerstone of Rotary’s mission to promote peace.
Each year, up to 130 fellowships are awarded for study at Rotary Peace Centers, offering:
- A 15–24 month master’s degree, or
- A one-year professional development certificate for experienced peace professionals.
Programs are hosted at top universities worldwide and focus on building practical skills for community and global impact.
In CNY Rotary, our Peace Subcommittee promotes the fellowship, supports recruitment, and guides applicants through the process. While Rotary members and their families are ineligible, they are encouraged to refer qualified candidates.
Since its launch, the program has trained over 1,700 fellows from more than 140 countries. Alumni now lead in governments, NGOs, education, peacekeeping, and global institutions like the UN and World Bank.
The next application cycle (2027-28) opens February 2026. Rotary seeks leaders with a strong record in peace and social impact.
Our Peace Fellowship offers a powerful way for Rotarians to support lasting global change by identifying and mentoring the next generation of peace leaders.
Rotary Friendship Exchange is an international exchange program for Rotary members and their families that promotes cross-cultural understanding and global goodwill. Participants travel to other countries, hosted by local Rotary members, and in turn, host visitors from those regions.
Key Features:
- Cultural Immersion: Participants experience local customs, lifestyles, and Rotary projects firsthand.
- Reciprocal Hosting: Exchanges are typically reciprocal, with both groups hosting and visiting.
- Flexible Formats: Exchanges can be individual, couple, family, or group-based, and vary in length.
- Strengthens Global Ties: Builds lasting friendships and fosters international service collaboration.
Benefits:
- Enhances global understanding and peace
- Encourages international service projects
- Offers unique travel experiences with local insight
