Peace and Conflict: Journal of Peace Psychology, Vol 31(1), Feb 2025, 1-7; doi:10.1037/pac0000776
This article explores the views of children of the declaration, This School is A Zone of Peace, how the children see themselves as members of the zone of peace, and the children’s contribution to peacebuilding. Through qualitative research, the authors unveiled the perception of 10 purposely chosen Grade 6 children in a public school. The data gathered underwent a thematic analysis. The children perceive the school, which is a zone of peace, as tranquil, a home of positive values such as love, respect, and understanding. Moreover, they claim that there is unity in the zone of peace. As a member of the zone of peace, the children view themselves as someone who embodies affirmative values, is helpful, and is a role model to fellow children as well as a source of inspiration. Finally, the children believe that through cooperation, loving one another, taking action in school programs and activities, and self-discipline, they can contribute to peacebuilding. This study involves a few participants whose voices may not truly represent the majority, but this may be a valuable contribution to the body of knowledge on the topic This School is A Zone of Peace in a different context. This article gives space to children who are mostly excluded in peacebuilding initiatives to have their views heard. This humble attempt gives opportunity to children’s voices to conform to the ns’ transformative promise: “Leave no one behind.” (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2025 APA, all rights reserved)