Plowshares is dedicated to the practice of identifying emerging social justice issues; developing pilot programs based on dialogical education and conflict transformation to address these social needs; and then researching, evaluating, and supporting replication of the pilot project.  These scaling strategies allow a relatively small organization to make a large impact through collaboration with other organizations that will assume the primary responsibility for achieving the long-term objectives and for securing sustainable funding.  

Current programs are underway in conflict transformation, immersion education, case teaching, and global service, in Africa, Asia, Latin America, and the US.

Current Initiative Highlights

Tallberg Forum: How on Earth Can We Live Together The Evans reflect on a gathering of 400 leaders focused on the scientific boundaries of a sustainable environment.  ...read more >

Update on China Risk Management Program Program staff recently returned from the Mainland conducting the first introductory risk management workshop  ...read more >

Seeking Peace in Colombia Bob Evan's reflections on his recent work in Colombia with the recently-formed Citizens' Commission for Reconciliation...read more >

Plowshares Institute is a catalyst for social change that has been addressing social risks and conflicts for nearly 25 years.

In partnership with an international advisory council and collaborative agencies on five continents, the Institute staff designs and implements projects that identify and address emerging social needs in order to build a more just and peaceful world community.  In the last decade many of these programs have provided skills in mediation and conflict transformation, and have empowered civic, religious, and political leaders to work together to deal constructively with emerging conflicts.

These programs led to Plowshares’ recent nomination for the Nobel Peace Prize by members of the South African parliament, with endorsement by leaders in China and Indonesia and members of the U.S. Congress. A deliberately small organization, Plowshares is able to make a valuable and sustainable impact by leveraging: its expertise in innovative core methodologies; its deep history of international experience and learning; its commitment to both thought and action; and its mutually beneficial partnerships with change agents around the world.