United States Institute of Peace USIP

The United States Institute of Peace is an independent quasi-federal institution established and funded by the U.S. Congress to:

• Prevent and resolve violent international conflict;
• Promote post-conflict stability and development;
• Increase peacebuilding capacity, tools, and intellectual capital.

The Institute accomplishes its mission through direct engagement in peacebuilding efforts around the world, and by empowering others with knowledge, skills, and resources.

Core Principles

1. We believe conflicts can be resolved without violence.
Though conflict is inevitable, many conflicts can be addressed effectively without violence. Nonviolent means can be less costly, more sustainable and less destructive to human lives, livelihoods and well-being.

2. We will adapt to the dynamics of each conflict.
Efforts to prevent, mitigate and resolve conflicts should be tailored to each issue, circumstance or conflict zone.

3. We will be guided by facts.
Efforts to prevent, mitigate and resolve violent conflicts must be grounded on empirical evidence and rigorously evaluated for impact.

4. We will partner.
Our impact is wider and more enduring when we work with partners in government, multilateral organizations, business and civil society around the world.

5. We believe in constant improvement.
To achieve excellence in everything we do, we strive consistently to improve both our own work and the work of our colleagues.

6. We innovate, learn and share whenever possible.
We test new means of addressing challenges and incorporate lessons learned into future work. Whenever possible, we share our knowledge, techniques, experiences and resources that can help others build peace.