The advancing digitalization of societies is reshaping the landscape of conflict and peacemaking in the 21st century. While this digital evolution has created new vulnerabilities and expanded conflict into cyberspace, it has simultaneously opened novel opportunities for innovative approaches to conflict prevention and conflict resolution. Peacemaking efforts can be strengthened through the thoughtful application of technological tools, while remaining mindful of the need to understand and mitigate potential risks. Digital technologies can be weaponized to fuel tensions through cyber-attacks or the spread of disinformation, potentially compromising peace processes through security breaches or the targeting of participants. However, when applied strategically and with care, these same technologies offer powerful capabilities for understanding complex conflicts, fostering inclusive dialogue, and facilitating collaboration between stakeholders.
Our work
CMI has established digital peacemaking as a strategic priority, positioning us at the forefront of integrating technological innovation with traditional peacemaking approaches.
Our digital peacemaking initiatives focus on futures and foresight, digital inclusion, and cyber resilience. As artificial intelligence emerges as a transformative force, mindful of its risks, we aim to harness its potential to innovate and enhance peace processes. Our team is actively exploring and developing AI applications, particularly in strengthening digital inclusion and advancing our foresight capabilities in dialogue processes.
To realize this vision, we maintain strong partnerships with Finnish and international technology companies, research institutions, and innovation leaders. These collaborations enable us to develop and implement digital solutions that are tailored to the sensitive nature of peace processes.
Our leadership in digital peacemaking builds on a foundation laid in 2004 when CMI first began exploring the role of digital technologies in conflict resolution. Since then, we have built a track record of successfully integrating digital approaches and foresight methodologies into our work. As a founding member of the CyberMediation Network, we continue to shape the global conversation about the impact of digital technologies on mediation, sharing insights and best practices with practitioners worldwide.
Deeply connected to Finland’s dynamic technology and start-up ecosystem, CMI is uniquely positioned to drive innovation in digital peacemaking. This distinctive combination of peacemaking expertise, technological advancement, and strong partnerships enables us to develop and implement effective solutions for peace in the digital age.
Key results
CMI has effectively integrated digital technologies into dialogue processes in various conflict-affected regions, showcasing their practical value in complex peace efforts. Through pioneering foresight and vision-building initiatives in Yemen, Armenia, Palestine, and the Maghreb Sahel region, we have helped stakeholders navigate uncertain futures and create shared visions for peace. In addition, CMI has published research on digitally enhanced foresight methodologies in leading peer-reviewed journals, advancing innovative approaches in peacemaking. By partnering with AI companies, CMI is co-developing new tools and methods that promote digital inclusion in dialogue processes.
