Rotarians have long believed that international understanding develops most quickly through personal relationships. In the 1930s, clubs in France and Germany formed the first petit comité, now known as an intercountry committee. These countries were still recovering from a devastating war, but the former adversaries knew that peace, however fragile, was worth keeping. Although a second world war dashed their hopes, these peace-minded Rotarians reconvened in 1950. Since then, Rotarians have formed 250 intercountry committees to promote international friendship and service.
One of the four objects of Rotary is: “The advancement of international understanding, goodwill, and peace through a world fellowship of business and professional persons united in the ideal of service.”
Rotary’s commitment to peace and the generosity of Rotarians around the world are what make the Rotary Peace Centres program a success. Since 2002, the Rotary Peace Centres have trained over 1,400 Rotary Peace Fellows who are now working as leaders in government, nongovernmental organizations, the military, law enforcement, education, humanitarian assistance, restorative justice, and international governance organizations. In addition to contributing to peace as individuals, these dedicated fellows are part of an expanding global network of Rotary alumni whose influence grows with each graduating class.
In 2002, The Rotary Foundation first established 5 Peace Centres at universities around the world after an extensive selection process. The University of Queensland, renown for its world-leading expertise in conflict resolution and peace studies, was selected as one of original 5 and has been a proud partner with Rotary ever since. The fellowships cover tuition and fees, room and board, round-trip transportation, and all internship and field-study expenses.
The first cohort of Rotary Peace Fellows at UQ started their studies in 2003. Since then, every year, a new cohort of 10 selected Peace Fellows from around the world have started their Masters in Peace and Conflict Studies at the University of Queensland Rotary Peace Centre.
