CMI – Martti Ahtisaari Peace Foundation is launching a global series of discussions focused on the legacy of President Martti Ahtisaari. These events, held in various locations around the world, will explore the future of peace mediation in an increasingly unstable world. On 1 October, in Ankara, Türkiye, President of Finland Alexander Stubb, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Finland Elina Valtonen and Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs of Türkiye Burhanettin Duran will discuss the future of peace mediation.
CMI’s Founder, Nobel Peace Prize laureate Martti Ahtisaari (1937–2023), was one of the world’s most successful peacemakers. His work for peace is an integral part of many nations’ histories, and he significantly shaped the development of peace mediation as a field. Ahtisaari highlighted the importance of equality, political will, and broad cooperation in building lasting peace.
CMI aims to spark dialogue on the continued relevance of Ahtisaari’s principles for peace, both now and in the future. There are currently more violent conflicts in the world than at any time since the end of the Second World War. States and other actors are increasingly attempting to resolve conflicts through force rather than diplomacy. The international system is struggling to maintain peace, hindered by growing geopolitical tensions.
Conversations about peace are urgently needed in a situation where the space for it has narrowed. “President Ahtisaari didn’t want monuments; he wanted his legacy to live on and be discussed. This series of discussions furthers that goal. At the same time, we want to create hope. CMI is driven forward by Ahtisaari’s vision that all conflicts can be resolved,” says CMI’s CEO, Janne Taalas.
The discussion series will bring together decision-makers, peace mediation professionals, and representatives from civil society and the business sector. CMI will organize these events in cooperation with local partners.
The series will begin on 1 October in Ankara, the capital of Türkiye. Ahtisaari’s legacy will be discussed among others by President of Finland Alexander Stubb, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Finland Elina Valtonen and Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs of Türkiye Burhanettin Duran.
In addition to Ankara, discussions will also be held this year in Geneva and Brussels. The series will continue next year in cities like Jakarta and New York. The events will culminate in CMI’s 25th anniversary celebration in Helsinki in autumn 2025. Ahtisaari founded CMI – Martti Ahtisaari Peace Foundation in 2000 to continue his life’s work.
Additional information:
Kaisa Raitio
Head of Communications and Private Fundraising
kaisa.raitio@cmi.fi
+358 50 338 92 69