From May to June 2023, IPADES had the honor of hosting the first edition of the “Liberty and Peace Academy (ALYP),” a training program specifically designed to empower 45 young Nicaraguan migrants and refugees in Costa Rica. The academy focused on fostering a culture of peace and strengthening conflict resolution skills among participants, offering a space for learning, reflection, and personal growth.

Training and Content

The program consisted of four master classes led by M.Sc. Gloria Chamorro, a psychologist with a distinguished background in peace and conflict resolution. Ms. Chamorro, a graduate of the Central American University (UCA) with a Master’s in Conflict Resolution, Peace, and Development from the United Nations-mandated University for Peace, guided the participants through essential topics for peacebuilding and mutual understanding in contexts of migration and refuge.

Throughout the master classes, participants explored a range of key concepts and methodologies, including:

  • Theory of Peace: Understanding foundational concepts of positive and negative peace and how they apply on a personal and community level.
  • Culture of Peace: Promoting values, attitudes, and behaviors oriented towards mutual respect, tolerance, and solidarity.
  • Alternative Methods of Conflict Resolution: Analysis and practice of methods such as negotiation, mediation, and conciliation for resolving conflicts peacefully.
  • Constructive Dialogue and Cooperative Debate: Techniques for fostering understanding and collaboration in diverse settings, essential for building peaceful and supportive relationships.
  • Institutional Mediation Systems in Costa Rica: Knowledge about formal conflict resolution mechanisms in the country, providing participants with tools to integrate and thrive in their new environment positively and proactively.

Special Thanks

The ALYP master classes were held at the facilities of the Universidad Central de Costa Rica (UCentral), whose support was crucial to the success of this initiative. IPADES extends its heartfelt gratitude to UCentral for its collaboration and commitment to this noble cause in support of peace and human development. Their contribution was instrumental in providing these young Nicaraguans with an academic environment that promotes dialogue and peace as pillars of healthy coexistence.

Impact and Future of the Liberty and Peace Academy

The ALYP not only provided knowledge and tools for peaceful conflict resolution but also strengthened the network of young Nicaraguans in Costa Rica, fostering a spirit of solidarity and mutual support among them. This first edition represents a significant step towards creating leaders committed to a culture of peace and equipped to contribute actively to their communities, both in Costa Rica and Nicaragua.

IPADES reaffirms its commitment to peace, freedom, and human development through educational programs like ALYP, and looks forward to continuing to work on future editions to make a positive impact on the lives of more young migrants and refugees.