By donating to our Disaster Relief Fund , you can help families and communities devastated by earthquakes and other natural disasters.

  • Club President/First Vice President
  • Club Secretary
  • Club Treasurer
  • Club Service Chairperson
  • Club Membership Chairperson
  • Managing Your Club
  • Managing Your District
  • Managing Your Multiple District
  • Managing Your Zone & Region
  • District Goals
  • Childhood Cancer Chairperson
  • Diabetes Chairperson
  • Environment Chairperson
  • Hunger Chairperson
  • Vision Chairperson
  • YCE Chairperson
  • Coordinating Lion
  • Leo District & Multiple District Leadership
  • Leo/Leo-Lion Cabinet & Council Liaison
  • Past District Governors
  • Global Action Team Roles & Resources
  • Global Service Team Toolbox
  • Global Membership Team and Global Extension Team Toolkit
  • Global Leadership Team Toolbox
  • Presidential Theme
  • Finance Resources
  • Legal Resources
  • How to Plan a District Convention
  • Make Your Club Visitation Count
  • Member, Officer or Club Information Requests
  • Membership Report Toolbox
  • New Voices Initiative
  • Redistrict to Improve District & Club Administration
  • Speaker Request Notification Form
  • Childhood Cancer
  • Disaster Relief
  • Environment
  • Humanitarian
  • Diabetes Camps
  • Diabetes Peer Support Groups
  • Strides for Diabetes Awareness
  • Type 2 Diabetes Screening
  • Lions Eye Banks
  • Recycle Eyeglasses
  • Eyeglass Recycling Centers
  • Lions Quest
  • Youth Camps & Exchange
  • The Service Journey
  • Service Launchpad
  • Service Project Planners
  • Service Reporting
  • Service Toolkit
  • Corporate Social Responsibility
  • Sight for Kids
  • The Choose Kindness Project
  • LCIF & Global Hope Partnership Africa
  • Lions & UNODC: Partners in Prevention
  • Special Olympics
  • The Carter Center
  • World Health Organization
  • Branch Club
  • Campus Club
  • Specialty Club
  • Traditional Club
  • Virtual Club
  • MISSION 1.5
  • Global Membership Approach
  • Family Membership
  • Join Together
  • Rebuilding & Reactivating Clubs
  • Start a New Club
  • Cub Program
  • Club Quality Initiative
  • Get To Know GAT
  • Guiding Lion Program
  • Improving Club Quality
  • Member Orientation
  • Mentoring Programs
  • New Members
  • Worldwide Induction Day
  • Leo Club Advisor
  • Leo Club Advisory Panel
  • Leo Club Leadership
  • Leo-Lion Program
  • Show Your Leo Pride
  • Start a Leo Club
  • Young Lions Hub
  • Lions International Brand
  • Logos & Brand Guidelines
  • Club Marketing
  • Lions Press Center
  • Social Media
  • Lions International Convention
  • Lions Day with the United Nations
  • International Forums
  • International Leo Day Video Contest
  • Peace Poster Contest
  • Peace Essay Contest
  • Melvin Jones Photo Contest
  • White Cane Safety Day
  • LION Magazine
  • Lions Video Center
  • LCIF Stories of Pride
  • The Lions Blog
  • Leadership Development
  • FVDG/DGE Training Program
  • Second Vice District Governor Training
  • Club Officer Training
  • Zone Chairperson Workshop
  • Leo Advancement Sessions
  • Leo Club Advisor Training
  • Leadership Development Institutes
  • Advanced Lions Leadership Institute (ALLI)
  • Emerging Lions Leadership Institute (ELLI)
  • Faculty Development Institute (FDI)
  • Lions Certified Instructor Program (LCIP)
  • Regional Lions Leadership Institute (RLLI)
  • Lions Learning Center
  • Virtual Events Center
  • Club Marketing Guide
  • LCIF Grants Toolkit
  • Childhood Cancer Grants
  • Designated Grants
  • Diabetes Grants
  • Disaster Grants
  • District & Club Community Impact Grants
  • Hunger Grants
  • Lions Quest Grants
  • Matching Grants
  • SightFirst Grants
  • Grant Types
  • Leadership Development Institute Grants
  • Leadership Development Multiple District & District Grants
  • Marketing Grants
  • Membership Development Grants
  • Melvin Jones Fellowship
  • Presidential LCIF Recognition
  • LCIF Recognition Program
  • MISSION 1.5 Awards
  • Presidential Awards Initiatives
  • Membership Awards
  • Jesse Robinson Membership Growth Cup
  • Membership Key Awards
  • Chevron Awards
  • Extension Awards
  • Lions International Marketing Award
  • Kindness Matters Service Award
  • Leo & Leo-Lion Awards & Recognitions
  • Humanitarian Award Winners
  • Club Excellence Awards
  • District Team Excellence Awards
  • Zone & Region Chairperson Awards
  • YCE Chairperson Award
  • Young Leaders in Service Award

International Peace Essay Contest

Created to give an opportunity for visually impaired young people to express their feelings of peace, the International Essay Contest is a staple of Lions clubs around the world. Lions work with local schools and area families to identify young people who are interested in participating and who could benefit from this program. One grand prize winner will receives an award and US$5,000.

The 2024-2025 Contest

Peace without limits.

For peace to be anything more than a possibility, we need to make it a priority. This year, we’re asking our young students to write an essay that speaks to our world’s infinite potential for kindness once we commit to pursuing the idea of peace without limits.

Contest Guidelines 

Students who are visually impaired, ages 11, 12 or 13 on November 15, are eligible to participate. Each essay must be submitted with a completed entry form. Essays must be no longer than 500 words in length, submitted in English, typed in black ink and double-spaced.

Complete Rules and Entry Form

Additional Resources

Peace Essay Club Level Winner Press Release Template

The 2022-2023 Essay Winner

“lead with compassion”.

Keaton Hamilton 11 years old Canada

Sponsored by the Newmarket Lions Club

Past Winners

Take a look back at the winning essays and essay winners throughout the years.

  • 2021-2022 "We Are All Connected" by Shreya Zoy age 13:  Read the Essay | Watch the Video Sponsored by: Mannuthy Agri City Lions Club
  • 2020-2021 “Peace Through Service” by Joshua Wood age 13:  Read the Essay | Watch the Video Sponsored by: Brisbane Camphill Carindale Lions Club
  • 2019-2020 “Journey of Peace” by Joseph Critchlow age 13:  Read the Essay | Watch the Video Sponsored by: City of Liverpool Lions Club, United Kingdom
  • 2018-2019 "Kindness Matters" by Mikayla Ansley, age 11: Read the Essay | Watch the Video Sponsored by: Blyth Lions Club, Canada
  • 2017-2018 "The Future of Peace" by Ely Potter, age 13: Read the Essay | Watch the Video  Sponsored by: Delaware Lions Club, Ohio, USA
  • 2016-2017 "A Celebration of Peace" by Charlie Bruskotter, age 12: Read the Essay Sponsored by: Delaware Lions Club, Ohio, USA
  • 2015-2016 "Share Peace" by Joel Greek, age 12: Read the Essay Sponsored by: Gordons Bay Lions Club, Republic of South Africa
  • 2014-2015 "Peace, Love and Understanding" by Jalen Ballard, age 12: Read the Essay Sponsored by: Sylvania Sunrise Lions Club, Ohio, USA
  • 2013-2014 "Our World, Our Future" by Ashish Karki, age 12: Read the Essay Sponsored by: Kathmandu Ramechhap Lions Club, Nepal
  • 2012-2013 "Imagine Peace" by Maura Loberg, age 11: Read the Essay Sponsored by: Wayne Lions Club, Wayne, Nebraska, USA
  • 2011-2012 "Children Know Peace" by Mikaela Smith, age 12: Read the Essay Sponsored by: Chesterton Lions Club, Indiana, USA
  • 2010-2011 "Power of Peace" by Amy Bosko, age 12: Read the Essay Sponsored by: Villa Park Lions Club, Illinois, USA
  • Press Center
  • Video Center
  • Brand Guidelines
  • Contact LCI
  • Contact LCIF
  • Your Privacy

300 W. 22nd Street

Oak Brook, IL 60523-8842 USA

+1 (630) 571-5466

All donations accepted on lionsclubs.org support Lions Clubs International Foundation (LCIF), which is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt public charitable organization. Lions Clubs International (LCI) is a 501(c)(4) tax-exempt social welfare organization and is not eligible to accept or solicit charitable donations. LCI and LCIF are EEO providers.

Welcome to Lions International!

  • Department of State

American Foreign Service Association

  • Publications
  • AFSA Scholarships
  • AFSA High School Essay Contest
  • AFSA Resources for Students
  • Education Supplement
  • Foreign Affairs Internships and Other Foreign Service-Related Opportunities
  • Educational Resources for Students and Teachers
  • Foreign Service HS Clubs - Get Involved!
  • Educational Partners
  • Awards & Honors

2021 High School Essay Contest Winning Essay

You are here, in this section, diplomats and peacebuilders in tunisia: paving the path to democracy.

BY MARIAM PARRAY

national peace essay contest 2021

On December 17, 2010, Tunisian street vendor Mohamed Bouazizi set himself on fire in protest against corruption and mistreatment by police. This resulted in a wave of civil unrest and demonstrations known as the Jasmine Revolution, which sparked the various movements of the Arab Spring (Yerkes). While other revolutions in the region caused violent conflicts and were unsuccessful in bringing about the intended changes, the uprising began the ongoing democratization of Tunisia. Despite several issues threatening the nation’s stability, peacebuilding through partnerships with the United States Foreign Service has been successful due to the emphasis on democracy-building, the grassroots foundations, and the empowerment of marginalized groups.

The Tunisian Revolution was the culmination of several decades of citizens’ demands to have their voices heard in a transparent system. While the revolution was successful in removing President Ben Ali from power, the opportunity to create a functional democracy was hindered by the issues Ali’s dictatorial regime left behind. The government was beset with corruption, the interior and south of Tunisia were severely neglected, and political competition was restricted. Ennahda, an Islamist political movement, won Tunisia’s first post-revolution democratic election after years of secular rule under Ali. Consequently, social cleavages between secularists and Islamists grew more prominent, and the issue of how Ennahda would address women in the new constitution exacerbated tensions (Yerkes). In 2013, these divisions climaxed in a national crisis with massive demonstrations and assassinations. However, this threat to democratization was addressed by four civil society organizations, collectively known as the National Dialogue Quartet, which was able to mediate dialogue among parties, convince Ennahda to step down, and resolve issues in the constitution (Chan). This highlighted the fact that although progress towards democracy was made, corruption, unemployment, extremism, mistrust, and political fragmentation were still prevalent (Abouaoun). To address this fragility and strengthen its democratic transition, the US Foreign Service contributed economic aid and resources to Tunisia.

Former US President Obama and former Tunisian President Essebsi emphasized three priorities in American assistance to Tunisia: the creation of strong institutions and civil society; economic reforms and reduced unemployment; and increased military capacity and counterterrorism (“Helping Tunisia Realize Its Democratic Promise”). To address the first priority, USAID developed three programs focused on democracy and governance. One of these projects was the Supporting Youth and Empowering Local Communities Project (SHAREKNA), which promoted social cohesion and created an effective local conflict management system using local leaders and youth. To achieve this, SHAREKNA partnered with multiple NGOs and worked in Cité Ettadhamen, Douar Hicher, El Kef, Sidi Bouzid, and Souk Jdid (“Supporting Youth and Empowering Local Communities Project (SHAREKNA)”). The inclusion of local leaders and youth in the project was instrumental in establishing peace at every level. USAID also implemented the Tunisia Accountability, Decentralization, and Effective Municipalities Project, which aided in decentralizing Tunisia by strengthening municipal governance, boosting political participation, and improving trust in institutions. This project emphasized capacity building at a local level and partnered with thirty-one Tunisian municipalities (“Tunisia Accountability, Decentralization, and Effective Municipalities (TADAEEM)”). Lastly, USAID created a Domestic Election Monitoring program, which provided aid in holding fair, free, and transparent elections—a key part of democracy building. USAID was able to support the deployment of over 4,000 domestic observers for Tunisian municipal elections; increase voter education and registration in youth, women, disabled people, rural populations, and other marginalized groups; and improve media coverage on elections (“Domestic Election Monitoring – Tunisia (DEMT)”). Collectively, these three projects empowered local and marginalized communities and improved trust.

In addition to supporting institutions, the US Foreign Service provided support in growing Tunisia’s economy and private sector. Since 2011, the US has contributed over 1.4 billion dollars to support the democratic transition (“U.S. Relations With Tunisia”). A significant amount of this assistance focused on increasing entrepreneurship and reducing unemployment, especially among youth and women. For example, the US gave assistance to over 4,500 Tunisian youth in skill training, job placement, and other services. The US also partnered with multiple technology companies and eight local women’s organizations to offer entrepreneurship and leadership training (“U.S. Assistance to Egypt, Tunisia and Libya”). Furthermore, the Peace Corps arrived in Tunisia in 2012 to implement English language training and youth skills programs to prepare citizens for future employment.

Lastly, the US promoted peace in Tunisia by enhancing its security capabilities. The US provided Anti-Terrorism Assistance, financial aid for police reform, and equipment and training to the Tunisian military through the Foreign Military Financing program (“Fact Sheet: Enduring U.S.-Tunisian Relations”). These programs have ensured that extremism and neighboring conflicts do not impede the democratic transition and also increased civil-military cooperation.

Peacebuilding efforts in Tunisia have been supported by those of the United States Institute of Peace (USIP). Since 2014, USIP has assisted the Alliance of Tunisian Facilitators (ATF)—a network of mediators and dialogue facilitators that focus on local conflict management. The project prevented violent extremism through empowering women in Douar Hicher, improved civil-military cooperation in Medenine through youth, and focused on conflict transformation between secular and Islamist student unions (“Alliance of Tunisian Facilitators (ATF)”). This program is deeply rooted in local communities, thus allowing for a grassroots approach. USIP also utilizes the Synergizing Nonviolent Action and Peacebuilding program in Tunisia, which has established connections between peacebuilders and nonviolent civic action practitioners to develop efficient methods of advancing shared goals (“The Current Situation in Tunisia”).

Finally, bilateral dialogue between the US and Tunisia has occurred on multiple levels and emphasized the dedication of both nations in their initiative for peacebuilding. In a joint statement, Obama and Tunisian Prime Minister Jomaa emphasized the commitment of their nations to foster peace, growth, and democracy (“Joint Statement by the United States of America and the Tunisian Republic”). Later on, Obama and Tunisian President Essebsi reaffirmed those sentiments, stating, “...as Tunisians seek to build the Arab world’s newest democracy, they will continue to have a strong friend and partner in the world’s oldest democracy, the United States of America” (“Helping Tunisia Realize Its Democratic Promise”). Furthermore, former Secretaries of State John Kerry and Hillary Clinton made multiple visits to Tunisia, applauding the efforts of the citizens and emphasizing important characteristics of the peacebuilding initiative (Clinton; Kerry). The dialogue between these officials and their commitment to democracy-building in Tunisia exemplifies how peacebuilding in Tunisia is not only a grassroots initiative but also an international priority and has been implemented at every level.

The Tunisian peacebuilding enterprise was successful because the approach stressed democracy-building, grassroots foundations, and the empowerment of marginalized groups. Firstly, programs and assistance have largely centered around building the nation’s democracy. This aspect of peacebuilding is particularly important, as the advancement of democracy promotes citizen inclusion, trust in institutions, and social cohesion. As a result, extremism and the violence caused by oppressive, corrupt regimes are avoided. In addition, Tunisia’s democratic transition had a grassroots foundation, which strengthened the peace initiative by emphasizing the will of the people. Foreign aid followed this grassroots call for change and continued to promote a local approach by emphasizing decentralization, community-based dialogue, and partnerships with local civil society organizations. Lastly, the empowerment of youth, women, and interior communities of Tunisia fostered peace by providing fair opportunities and addressing their previously neglected needs. With over 60 percent of the population under 30, it was especially important to involve the youth, whom Clinton said would “determine what the future will be” (Rupert, “Tunisia, Stable Under Essebsi, Now Must Recruit Youth”; “Town Hall With Tunisian Youth”). Consequently, there was increased inclusion of these citizens in the government, exemplified in the May 2018 local elections in which 47 percent of council seats went to women, and 37 percent went to those under 35 (Yerkes).

Because of the success of peacebuilding initiatives, Tunisia remains a model of a strong democratic transition. Furthermore, USAID, USIP, and US government officials’ multifaceted approach to Tunisia exemplifies the significance of diplomats in achieving peace. With the continuation of diplomatic efforts, Tunisia’s future as a peaceful, democratic country will be secured, and it will serve as a paradigm for other global peacebuilding initiatives.

Bibliography

Abouaoun, Elie. “Tunisia Timeline: Since the Jasmine Revolution.” United States Institute of Peace , 12 Jul. 2019, www.usip.org/tunisia-timeline-jasmine-revolution . Accessed 26 Nov. 2020.

“Alliance of Tunisian Facilitators (ATF).” United States Institute of Peace , www.usip.org/programs/alliance-tunisian-facilitators-atf . Accessed 5 Nov. 2020.

Chan, Sewell. “Nobel Peace Prize Is Awarded to National Dialogue Quartet in Tunisia.” The New York Times , 9 Oct. 2015, www.nytimes.com/2015/10/10/world/europe/national-dialogue-quartet-tunisia-nobel-peace-prize.html . Accessed 5 Nov. 2020.

Clinton, Hillary Rodham. “Town Hall With Tunisian Youth.” U.S. Department of State , 25 Feb. 2012, 2009-2017. state.gov/secretary/20092013clinton/rm/2012/02/184656.htm . Accessed 10 Nov. 2020.

“The Current Situation in Tunisia.” United States Institute of Peace , 12 Oct. 2020, www.usip.org/publications/2020/10/current-situation-tunisia . Accessed 5 Nov. 2020.

“Domestic Election Monitoring – Tunisia (DEMT).” USAID , 3 Dec. 2018, www.usaid.gov/tunisia/fact-sheets/demt . Accessed 11 Nov. 2020.

“Fact Sheet: Enduring U.S.-Tunisian Relations.” U.S. Embassy in Tunisia , tn.usembassy.gov/our-relationship/fact-sheet-enduring-u-s-tunisian-relations/ . Accessed 5 Nov. 2020.

Forest, Rosemary. “Partnerships in Peacebuilding: 9 Takeaways from Working with Grassroots Groups.” Alliance , 6 Feb. 2020, www.alliancemagazine.org/blog/partnerships-in-peacebuilding-9-takeaways-from-working-with-grassroots-groups/ . Accessed 26 Nov. 2020.

Gallagher, Adam. “Amid North Africa’s Turmoil, Tunisia’s Steady Transition Moves Forward.” United States Institute of Peace , 3 May 2019, www.usip.org/publications/2019/05/amid-north-africas-turmoil-tunisias-steady-transition-moves-forward . Accessed 26 Nov. 2020.

“Joint Statement by the United States of America and the Tunisian Republic.” The White House , 4 Apr. 2014, obamawhitehouse.archives.gov/the-press-office/2014/04/04/joint-statement-united-states-america-and-tunisian-republic . Accessed 11 Nov. 2020.

Kerry, John. “Remarks at a Solo Press Availability.” U.S. Department of State , 18 Feb. 2014, 2009-2017. state.gov/secretary/remarks/2014/02/221754.htm . Accessed 10 Nov. 2020.

Obama, Barack, and Béji Caïd Essebsi. “Helping Tunisia Realize Its Democratic Promise.” The Washington Post , 20 May 2015, www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/us-helping-tunisia-to-make-sure-democracy-delivers/2015/05/20/05b029e4-fe75-11e4-833c-a2de05b6b2a4_story.html . Accessed 5 Nov. 2020.

Rupert, James. “Tunisia: Democratic but Precarious.” United States Institute of Peace , 22 Dec. 2017, www.usip.org/publications/2017/12/tunisia-democratic-precarious . Accessed 5 Nov. 2020.

Rupert, James. “Tunisia, Stable Under Essebsi, Now Must Recruit Youth.” United States Institute of Peace , 29 Jul. 2019, www.usip.org/blog/2019/07/tunisia-stable-under-essebsi-now-must-recruit-youth . Accessed 27 Nov. 2020.

“Supporting Youth and Empowering Local Communities Project (SHAREKNA).” USAID , 3 Dec. 2018, www.usaid.gov/tunisia/fact-sheets/sharekna . Accessed 11 Nov. 2020.

“Tunisia Accountability, Decentralization, and Effective Municipalities (TADAEEM).” USAID , 3 Dec. 2018, www.usaid.gov/tunisia/fact-sheets/tadaeem . Accessed 11 Nov. 2020.

“U.S. Assistance to Egypt, Tunisia and Libya.” Wilson Center , 10 Sept. 2012, www.wilsoncenter.org/article/us-assistance-to-egypt-tunisia-and-libya . Accessed 5 Nov. 2020.

“U.S. Relations With Tunisia.” U.S. Department of State , 20 Sept. 2019, www.state.gov/u-s-relations-with-tunisia/ . Accessed 5 Nov. 2020.

Yerkes, Sarah, and Marwan Muasher. “Decentralization in Tunisia: Empowering Towns, Engaging People.” Carnegie Endowment for International Peace , 17 May 2018, carnegieendowment.org/2018/05/17/decentralization-in-tunisia-empowering-towns-engaging-people-pub-76376 . Accessed 10 Nov. 2020.

Yerkes, Sarah E. “The Tunisia Model.” Foreign Affairs , vol. 98, no. 6, 2019, www.foreignaffairs.com/articles/tunisia/2019-10-15/tunisia-model . Accessed 5 Nov. 2020.

national peace essay contest 2021

National Peace Essay Contest

Ages: High School

Type: Submission

Scope: National

[email protected]

Participate

USIP is proud to partner with the American Foreign Service Association (AFSA) on the annual National High School Essay Contest for 2016-2017. The contest engages high school students each year in learning and writing about issues of peace and conflict, encouraging appreciation for diplomacy’s role in building partnerships that can advance peace-building and protect national security.

The 2016-2017 contest challenges students to closely examine the causes and impact of the refugee crisis. The winner of the contest will receive a $2,500 cash prize, an all-expense paid trip to Washington, D.C. to meet the secretary of state and USIP leadership, and a full-tuition paid voyage with Semester at Sea upon the student’s enrollment at an accredited university. The runner-up will receive a $1,250 cash prize and a full scholarship to participate in the International Diplomacy Program of the National Student Leadership Conference.

There are no news items for this competition at this time.

Submit an essay based on the year’s essay contest question.

Website: https://www.usip.org/public-education/students/AFSAEssayContest

Managing Organization: The U.S. Institute of Peace (USIP)

Contact: [email protected]

Eligibility: High School Students in the United States.

Signup Newsletter

Sign me up for the newsletter!

national peace essay contest 2021

The Institute of Competition Sciences (ICS) was founded in 2012 to help transform learning into an exciting challenge for all students. We exist to support students in realizing the full potential of their future.

Quick Links

  • Competitions
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms and Conditions

Connect with us on social media

Copyright © 2024 Institute of Competition Sciences. All rights reserved.

national peace essay contest 2021

  • GIVE TO BETHANY
  • Bethany Merchandise
  • Brethren Academy
  • Mission and Vision
  • Meet the President
  • Board of Trustees
  • Educational Effectiveness
  • History and Facts
  • Accreditation & Distance Ed Auth
  • Location & Maps
  • Faculty and Staff Directory

national peace essay contest 2021

  • Application Essay Instructions
  • Transcript Requests
  • Audit Application Essay Instructions
  • Audit Application Form
  • Pay Application Fee
  • Occasional Student Application Form
  • Occasional Student Application Essay Instructions
  • Master of Divinity Application Form
  • Employment History Form
  • Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)
  • International Student Sponsorship Forms
  • International Student Application Form
  • Faculty Interviews
  • Graduate Certificate Application Form
  • Tuition, Fees, and Payments
  • Request Information
  • Campus Visit Day
  • Personal Campus Visit
  • Resources for Prospective Students
  • Enrollment Reservation and Deposit
  • Bethany BOLD
  • 2019-20 Cost of Attendance
  • Church Service Covenant Grant Essay
  • Federal Work-Study Employment Application
  • Financial Aid Appeal Form
  • Financial Aid Application
  • Financial Aid FAQs
  • Financial Aid Scenarios
  • Work-Study Opportunities

national peace essay contest 2021

  • Master of Divinity
  • Ministry Formation
  • Master of Arts
  • Master of Arts: Theopoetics and Writing
  • Master of Arts in Spiritual and Social Transformation
  • Graduate Certificates
  • Distance Learning

national peace essay contest 2021

  • Video Vault
  • Publications
  • Brethren Life & Thought
  • Continuing Education Opportunities
  • Pastoral Presence Program

national peace essay contest 2021

  • Brethren Academy for Ministerial Leadership
  • Subscribe to Brethren Life & Thought
  • Brethren Life & Thought Back Issues
  • Brethren Life & Thought Vol 53 No 3 (Summer 2008)
  • Brethren Life & Thought Vol 53 No 4 (Fall 2008)
  • Brethren Life & Thought Vol 54 No 1&2 (Winter/Spring 2009)
  • Brethren Life & Thought Vol 54 No 3 ( Summer 2009)
  • Brethren Life & Thought Vol 54 No 4 (Fall 2009)
  • Brethren Life & Thought Vol 55 No 1 and 2 (Winter/Spring 2010)
  • Brethren Life & Thought Vol 55 No 3&4 (Summer/Fall 2010)
  • Donate to Brethren Life & Thought
  • Gallery – Tech Center Construction
  • Graduate Programs

national peace essay contest 2021

  • Future Student
  • Current Student
  • Faculty/Staff
  • Alumna/Alumnus
  • Donor/Friend
  • What are you looking for?

2021 Peace Essay Contest Launched

national peace essay contest 2021

The Peace Studies program at Bethany Theological Seminary is now accepting entries for its 2021 Peace Essay Contest . Made possible by the Jennie Calhoun Baker Endowment, the contest has a deadline of May 15, 2021 . Essays should be 1500-2000 words and written in response to t he following prompt:  

Civil Resistance and Nonviolent Social Change in an Increasingly Virtual World  

More than five decades after civil resistance movements worldwide, communities local and global continue to be threatened by state-sanctioned violence. From movements in opposition to police brutality in Nigeria led by #ENDSARS and in the United States organized by #BlackLivesMatter, to the farmer protests in India and the pro-Navalny movement in Russia, people are joining in solidarity to rise up and demand a better world. How can we create and participate in nonviolent social change in an increasingly violent — and virtual — world?  

The contest is open to students in high school , college, seminary, or graduate schoo l. Prizes of $2000, $1000, and $500 will be awarded to the top three entries.    

Learn more or submit your essay here.

footerlogo

615 National Road West

Richmond, IN 47374

footerlogo

  • Request More Information
  • Campus Visits
  • Academic Programs
  • Upcoming Courses
  • Renovation of the Bethany Center
  • Title IX Information
  • Undergraduate
  • Short Courses
  • Online Courses
  • Masters/Postgraduate
  • Postdoctoral
  • Study in Africa
  • Study in Asia
  • Study in Australia
  • Study in Europe
  • Study in USA
  • Fellowships
  • Internships
  • Volunteering
  • OD Live Series
  • Young Person of the Month
  • Success Stories
  • General Tips
  • ODIC 2023 Application
  • ODIC Judges
  • ODIC 2022 Winners
  • ODIC 2021 Winners
  • ODIC 2019 Winners
  • ODIC 2018 Winners
  • ODIC 2017 Winners
  • ODIC 2016 Winners
  • Australia and Oceania

Opportunity Desk

Goi Peace Foundation International Essay Contest for Young People 2021

national peace essay contest 2021

Deadline: June 15, 2021

Applications are open for the Goi Peace Foundation International Essay Contest for Young People 2021 . This annual essay contest is organized in an effort to harness the energy, creativity and initiative of the world’s youth in promoting a culture of peace and sustainable development.

It also aims to inspire society to learn from the young minds and to think about how each of us can make a difference in the world. This program is an activity within the framework of UNESCO’s Education for Sustainable Development: Towards achieving the SDGs (ESD for 2030)

Theme: “What is Life?”

What does life mean to you? Have you had an experience that made you think about the meaning of life? What kinds of things can you do to cherish and invigorate your own life and all life on earth?

The following awards will be given in the Children’s category and Youth category respectively:

  • 1st Prize: Certificate, prize of 100,000 Yen (approx. US$900 as of March 2021) and gift for 1 entrant.
  • 2nd Prize: Certificate, prize of 50,000 Yen (approx. US$450 as of March 2021) and gift for 3 entrants.
  • 3rd Prize: Certificate and gift for 5 entrants.
  • Honorable Mention: Certificate and gift for 25 entrants.
  • 1st to 3rd prize winners will be invited to the Winners Gathering to be held online.
  • Additional awards (Best School Award, School Incentive Award) will be given if applicable.
  • All prize winners will be announced on October 31, 2021 (Japan time) on this website. Certificates and gifts will be mailed to the winners in December 2021.

Eligibility

  • Children (ages up to 14)
  • Youth (ages 15 – 25)
  • Essays must be 700 words or less in English or French, or 1600 characters or less in Japanese. Essays must be typed, with your name and essay title included at the top of the first page.
  • There are no particular rules regarding formatting (font style, size, line space, etc.). However, essays must be submitted in either MS Word (DOC/DOCX) or PDF format.
  • Teachers and youth directors may submit a collection of essays from their class or group by creating an ‘account for school/organization entrant’ on the online registration page.
  • Essays must be original and unpublished. Plagiarized entries will be rejected.
  • Essays must be written by one person. Co-authored essays are not accepted.
  • Copyright of the essays entered will be assigned to the organizer.

Application

Entries must be submitted online. To send your essay online, you must go to the online registration page, and follow the required steps. Entries submitted by postal mail or e-mail are not accepted.

Entries must be received by June 15, 2021 (23:59 your local time).

Click here to apply

For more information, visit Goi Peace Foundation .

Avatar photo

Jude Ogar is an educator and youth development practitioner with years of experience working in the education and youth development space. He is passionate about the development of youth in Africa.

Related Posts

22 internships & jobs for students and young professionals – february 22, 2024, unaoc/bmw group intercultural innovation hub 2024 (up to $20,000), media development investment fund (mdif) amplify south africa program 2024.

Type above and press Enter to search. Press Esc to cancel.

Breadcrumbs - Mobile

High school essay contest.

Friday, February 23 11:59 - 11:59PM EST

United States

Get directions

U.S. Capitol Building with blue sky

High school essay contest

Announcing the annual high school essay contest! The annual MCC U.S. National Peace & Justice Ministries essay contest highlights the perspectives of youth on significant public policy issues and promotes the involvement of young people in faithful witness to government authorities. Submissions may be in English or Spanish. (A continuación véase la información en español.)

The contest is open to Mennonite, Brethren in Christ and other Anabaptist youth of high school age and to all youth who attend Mennonite high schools within the United States, including Puerto Rico. 

A grand prize of $1000 will be awarded to the top essay. Honorable mentions will receive $250.

Read the full contest rules .

Topics this year are: •    Climate change •    Immigration •    Mass incarceration Contest topics | Resource list

The deadline for submitting entries is 11:59 pm Eastern time on February 23, 2024. Essays should be submitted to your nearest MCC regional office.

¡Anunciamos el concurso anual de ensayos para estudiantes de secundaria!

El concurso anual de ensayos del Ministerios Nacionales de Paz y Justicia de CCM U.S. destaca las perspectivas de los jóvenes sobre cuestiones importantes de política pública y promueve la participación de los jóvenes en el testimonio fiel ante las autoridades gubernamentales. Las presentaciones pueden ser en inglés o en español. El concurso está abierto a los menonitas, Hermanos en Cristo y otros jóvenes anabautistas en edad de asistir a la escuela secundaria y a todos los jóvenes que asisten a las escuelas secundarias menonitas dentro de los Estados Unidos, incluida la isla de Puerto Rico. Se otorgarán un gran premio de $1000 al mejor ensayo. Las menciones honoríficas recibirán $250.  

Consulte las reglas completas del concurso .

Los temas de este año son: •    Cambio climático •    Inmigración •    Encarcelación masiva

Temas del concurso  |  Lista de recursos

La fecha límite para presentar los trabajos es el 23 de febrero de 2024 a las 11:59 p.m., hora del este. Los ensayos deben presentarse en la oficina regional del CCM más cercana. 

Arkansas Peace Week

Make peace our natural state, 2021 essay contest winners.

Congratulations to our 2021 Peace Week Essay Winners: Grades 7 – 8: • 1st place -tie: Tod Videll, “My vision for a more peaceful Arkansas,” Christ Little Rock • 1st place – tie: Hunter Williford, “Arkansas Peace Essay”, Pleasant Plains; Homeschool • 3rd place: Wyatt Sharp, “A New Class,” Oak Park Academy Grades 9 – 10: • 1st place: Noah Meharg, “Peace in Arkansas,” White County Central • 2nd place: Claire Reynolds, “Making Arkansas a productive, pleasant Place.” White County Central • 3rd place: Dani Hunter, “Future Peace lies in the teachers of today,” Bentonville West High Grades 11 – 12: • 1st place: Raga Mandali, “No justice, no peace;” Little Rock Central High School • 2nd place: Josie Eanes, “Destigmatizing Mental Health in Arkansas;” Little Rock Central High School • 3rd place tie: Caroline Cheek, “On Peace,” Bentonville High School • 3rd place tie: Gaby Nunez, “Peace Essay,” Riverview High

1st Place: 7th-8th Grade

Tod V., Christ Little Rock

My Vision for a More Peaceful Arkansas

Peace is a very important thing and I think every state should have it. Peace to me is everyone getting along and no one is fighting or arguing. Peace is a very good thing to have in a state because it makes the state more calm and it is easier to make important decisions for the state.

Arkansas faces a lot of difficult challenges and needs to fix them. Some examples are equitable education opportunities and job support and security. One reason that we need to fix equitable education opportunities is so that teenagers coming out of high school have more opportunities for education. The government could give kids that aren’t headed for college money so that they could go to a trade school. We need to change job support and job security because if people have jobs and money, the crime rate will go down because they will be able to support themselves and their family.

When we fix our problems such as equitable education opportunities and job support and security, crime rate will go down and it will be more peaceful. This would happen because people would have a good job and money to support their family. A few things that would happen if Arkansas became more peaceful is the economy would be better because stores would be less worried about getting robbed and they will stay open longer. Another thing that would happen is less homeless people because they would have a good education and job support. In the future hopefully we can work together to make a more peaceful Arkansas through more affordable education and job security.

I think it’s very important for the community and myself to put in work to make Arkansas more peaceful. I would make a website that has direct access to all local trade schools. Also this website could have grants and scholarships available for these schools. I would also start a Go Fund Me and when people donate all the money would go to underprivileged high school seniors to use for school. Another thing I would do is provide classes for homeless people so they can get a job. These are the things that I would do to make Arkansas more peaceful.

If we did these things that I have stated Arkansas will be on its way to becoming more peaceful. Arkansas really needs to find ways to provide more affordable education for young adults. With this education they will be able to find better jobs to support themselves and their family. All of these things will hopefully lead to a more peaceful Arkansas. I truly believe that this can happen.

Hunter W., Homeschool

Arkansas Peace Essay

There are many problems in our state today. But, with enough work, many of these problems can be solved. This essay is about what these problems are, how my generation can help solve them, and what it would look like in ten years.

Firstly, our state struggles severely with crime rates. According to usnews.com, our state ranks #47th in public safety. http://www.prisonpolicy.org states, “At least 45,000 different people are booked into local jails each year in Arkansas.” Between the years of 2001 and 2010, Arkansas death rates were %50 higher than the national average, and was ranked 9th highest of any state in the country due to gun violence. So, how can we fix this? We could solve these problems by running more extensive background checks when purchasing guns, and by putting a higher focus on our police force. We can also put a higher focus on churches and religious services for inmates. If we work on even just one of these, we could have a safer Arkansas in just ten years.

Second, homelessness is a big problem in Arkansas. According to a report done by Continuums of Care to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, an estimated 2,366 people are experiencing homelessness in Arkansas as of January 2020. Arkansas has improved greatly in homelessness rates, with a %13 percent decrease in homelessness in 2020, according to the Annual Homelessness Assessment Report. However, we can decrease this number more, if we make a few changes. For example, we could build more homeless shelters, allowing the homeless to worry less on where they will sleep that night, and therefore be able to put more effort into a job. One way my generation could help is by donating to local homeless shelters, and by volunteering at them. If we volunteered and donated to shelters more, and spent more money on shelters, homelessness rates could reduce greatly within the next ten years.

Finally, Arkansas could use some improvement in education, another area we are severely lacking in. According to usnews.com, Arkansas ranked Forty-First in education nation-wide. It also ranked forty-seventh in educational attainment. So, how can my generation help solve this problem? We could raise money for our schools through fundraisers, donate pencils and other school supplies, and study harder, turn in assignments on time, and encourage each other to stay in school. If we could put a higher focus on our education, we could potentially help lower crime and homelessness rates. If more people graduate high school instead of dropping out, there would be more people taking jobs and buying houses, instead of stealing and being homeless. According to http://www.richmondfed.org , nearly 80 percent of criminals are high-school dropouts or recipients of the GED credential, with over half of the recipients having earned it while incarcerated.

In conclusion, if my generation would help solve these problems, then Arkansas will be a better, safer, and happier place in ten years.

3rd Place: 7th-8th Grade

Wyatt S., Oak Park Academy

A New Class

If you had to picture our state ten years from now what would it look like? In my future I would have the image of empty prisons, no homeless or starving people, and drug addictions being a thing of the past. For this to be possible I feel that it is essential to start a new class in grade school, junior high, and high school. This class will help students learn not only the importance of not doing drugs but also using their own time to build and take care of the community by helping to build homes, community gardens, food banks, and little free libraries.

This class is essential to our future because it will teach young minds to not judge others and how they can help their community. It will teach them how they can help the community and individuals that struggle from drug addiction, poverty, and other life issues. Like other classes it teaches them about not doing drugs and how to help the community, but unlike other classes it also will take them into the field where they get to apply what they have learned in class to the real world. So instead of teaching how to help we are letting them help. The class allows students to apply their knowledge because in a classroom you can endure endless lectures but it will never really stick if you aren’t applying and using it. What do you think would help the community more by learning how to help or actually going out and helping? It has also been proven that hands-on learning is more effective when it comes to students grasping what they are taught.

If this class is successful students will learn and do the following things. They will learn about the importance of not doing drugs and that they shouldn’t be pressured or pressure others to do drugs and will also help in the rehabilitation of people that have suffered from drug addictions. Students can learn about the importance of little free libraries, food banks, community homes, and other public things that help our community.They will also participate in the building and maintenance of these structures around their town or city. If these prove to be successful it will have a huge impact on the rates of homeless and starving people along with crimes committed due to drug addictions by creating more family like connections in the community.

Students that attend this class will learn how they can help the community while also building kindness, caring, and empathetic in themselves. The more we grow with those morals and use them to help the community it will allow everyone to be a contributing citizen to a more peaceful and caring community. My Vision for a better city in 2031 would be a place where almost no people are on drugs and there is a home, food to eat, and books to read for all people of Arkansas.

1st Place: 9th-10th Grade

Noah M., White County Central High School

Peace in Arkansas

We all want to have peace, whether it be across the globe, within our own country, or even just within our own state of Arkansas. There are many different visions of what peace looks like. Some people see peace simply as less arguing and a less toxic culture, some see it as a society where there is very little violence, and some see peace as everyone getting along without any problems whatsoever, but what does peace really look like?

While we want to have peace, we must examine the unpeaceful culture that exists in some parts of Arkansas. It’s not uncommon for unpeaceful events to take place anywhere, but there are several places in Arkansas that have a particularly concerning problem when it comes to crime statistics. In Little Rock, shootings seem to occur almost every day and theft is quite common too. In Pine Bluff, the crime rate is rather high and places outside of Arkansas and even the US have noticed. The Independent, an online newspaper in the UK, reported on the crime rate in Pine Bluff, which has the second highest crime rate of all metropolitan areas in the US, only behind Detroit.

While our state may not ever be one-hundred percent peaceful, every person that we impact could mean one less potentially unpeaceful event. If we reach out to communities across Arkansas using our communication resources, we can work towards making our state more peaceful. Various media resources can be used to spread a message of peace, including television, radio, newspapers, social media, websites and ads. Through these means of communication, a campaign for peace could highlight the deep divisions that lie within society. The ads can display the benefits of peace, such as less violence, less crime, and a kinder, more unified state.

Finally, I would like to discuss a timeline for creating a more peaceful Arkansas. We can talk about what needs to be accomplished and how to accomplish it, but a timeline forces us to take more immediate action. A good goal to set for achieving something as sizable and complex as peace is ten years, which would mean that we should have a peaceful Arkansas by the year 2031. It’s not entirely impossible to achieve peace in Arkansas, but a reasonable amount of time is needed considering the total population is over three million and that the state has one of the highest crime rates in the nation. A deadline of 2031 for achieving peace gives time to strategize, collect information, and execute a plan.

It is imperative that we work toward a more peaceful Arkansas and that we execute our strategy in the right way. We must start by recognizing our problems, creating a strategy as to how we will achieve peace, then we must create a goal, specifically in terms of time, and then put our plan into action. While it may be a challenge unlike any other, we can work towards achieving peace in Arkansas by 2031.

2nd Place: 9th-10th Grade

Claire R., White County Central (WCC)

Making Arkansas a Productive, Peaceful Place

Division among people has been a problem in society since the beginning of time. In Arkansas we have division just like the rest of the world. Maybe it’s separation because of politics, racial differences, or maybe it’s religious beliefs. Regardless of what the differences may be, there’s always some form of division. Making a more peaceful Arkansas will be a hard task, but these differences can make us so much stronger if we band together.

Racial, gender, and ethnicity differences are what make us who we are. I think that it is good to be able to see everything from all sides. Generation Z, I think, is one of the most accepting generations in history. We don’t care what the color of your skin is, we don’t care what you identify as, and we’re very accepting of all different kinds of people. I think that this is an amazing trait that more people need to learn how to do. People need to love more, argue less. People need to see more diversity in friendships, relationships, and things of that nature to really see that we are all equal.

In Arkansas, as of 2016, we had the seventh highest poverty rate in the nation at 17.2% of Arkansas living in poverty. Poverty now is something that usually continues from generation to generation, however if we improve our education by giving people the tools they need to succeed in life, we would most likely see a drastic change in our poverty rate throughout the years to come. In Arkansas, women have a two percent higher poverty rate than men. Wonder why? They’re getting cheated out of almost two thousand dollars a year. That’s bills, groceries, payments, gifts, and so many other things that women don’t get because of that 79.5 cent difference between the two pay rates.

If we improved the education system in the ways I stated earlier, we would also greatly improve our level of education we get. The state of Arkansas is forty first in the nation for education. A main reason stated in all of the articles I’ve read about poverty in Arkansas is all education related. If citizens had more skills, and knew how to get higher education, or just know how to do a job well our poverty rate would lower quite a bit. I think we should also educate ourselves on mental health. I think we should make therapy more cost free and offer it to anyone and everyone. Mental healthcare is frowned upon by many, and I will never understand why. If we all get stuff off our chest, or get mental peace with someone or something, how could we not be a more peaceful state?

In conclusion, these changes would make Arkansas a much better place. We would have healthier, productive citizens who are lowering the poverty rate as the years go by! This would be a state of happiness, and equality. Doesn’t that sound peaceful to you?

3rd Place: 9th-10th Grade

Dani H., Bentonville West High School

Future Peace Lies in the Teachers of Today

In recent years, our social climate has become much more accepting. With all of our recent advancements in technology, we are at a point in history where it is possible to create a connected, harmonious world. Due to the activism of today, the idyllic image of a peaceful world has become more reachable than ever before. How does society get there? The easiest way is through an accessible and affordable education that better addresses our past. The best way to better ourselves is to learn from our past mistakes and address political and social conflicts.

We first have to look at what creates conflict. A large portion of strife in this world comes from alienation and separation; it comes from issues like racism, homophobia, transphobia, misogyny, or xenophobia. Prejudice leads to higher levels of violence. If we are able to stop it before it takes root, we can ensure a nonviolent future. Our education systems must address the aforementioned issues head-on. The surefire way to eliminate harmful preconception is an all-encompassing education. Schools need to teach about the moments of history that don’t portray America in the best light. We cannot let nationalism take precedence over the importance of teaching the truth. To reconcile, we must acknowledge our past. Sweeping our mistakes under the rug will continue to reinforce a cycle of harmful beliefs that lead to conflict. If Arkansans want to reach tranquility, we must ensure that the children of today learn about the past; not in a light that blames them, but in a light that encourages them to do better.

So, how can Arkansans make steps towards a peaceful community? Emphasize school funding! Teach about history in and out of the classroom; refuse to let any part of history be swept under the rug. Start conversations about difficult topics you see on the news. Look for prejudice in your own thinking; ask yourself, “Why do I believe what I believe?”. Carefully research the views of political candidates to ensure you are voting for better education, and not an erasure of important documents from the curriculum. You have the power to change our community into being focused on learning and growing. You have the power to address bigotry when you see it, and you have the power to teach future generations to recognize it. Together, we have the power to better our communities. Every individual action counts.

Peace isn’t something that is taught from a textbook; it is something that is fostered. We need to encourage the children of today to be accepting of their peers. We need to teach the children of today to understand the origins of conflict. We need to emphasize the importance of kindness and acceptance just as much as we teach Mathematics and English. Only then will Arkansas begin to build the foundation for tranquility. As Nobel-Peace Prize winner Nelson Mandela once said, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world”.

1st Place: 11th-12th Grade

Raga M., Little Rock Central Highschool

No Justice, No Peace

As we left the school building, the echoes of our state’s history lingered behind us. The violent displacement of the Native tribes in Arkansas, the segregation of young schoolchildren – they happened merely decades ago, their voices still ringing loud and clear. Still, I was beyond grateful for the peace we had achieved until today. Looking around at the kids on my school bus, I couldn’t help but cherish our diversity and connectedness.

A few hours later, we found ourselves in a part of Northeast Arkansas to stop for gas. At first, I didn’t notice the jeers and glares from the people around me, but each angry face, marked by hostility and violence, slowly materialized around me. The beauty that I witnessed just hours earlier on the bus was shattered in an instant – now it felt like the worst burden. It wasn’t only unjust – it was unpeaceful.

This is merely one example of peacelessness in Arkansas, and it was simply the threat of violence that ruined our peace. Real violence is sustained to date, and the trauma and unrest that plagued our history still lingers on in the form of hate and discrimination. In a time markedly characterized by unrest – as marginalized communities fight for their equal treatment while others unabashedly display their desire to disrupt it – peace is the ultimate goal.

My vision of a more peaceful Arkansas is one that is radically different. War is injustice, racism is injustice, anti-trans legislation is injustice– as long as these kinds of things continue to exist, we can never achieve peace, keeping us stuck in a constant struggle for freedom in which violence will always prevail. Ten years from now, I hope that we eliminate these injustices which sustain suffering and unrest. I hope that no child will ever be afraid to travel across the state they call home.

Hate and violence may continue to breed and grow, but peace is a potent force. Peace is defined in many ways; some only emphasize the lack of violence, others hope for a sense of harmony between people. I have yet to find a definition of peace that satisfies me, but I know what peace isn’t. Peace isn’t just a bit better than the horrors of our history. Peace isn’t the sustenance of injustice. Peace isn’t a compromise.

That’s why it is up to us. Each one of the kids on that bus are capable of great change, and our experiences of the world around us make us catalysts for progress and peace. Now, imagine that force extended to thousands of inspired kids across the state of Arkansas. In 2021, we are more connected than ever – using our drive for change and passion for peace to change laws, promote equality, and eliminate war and violence, we are unstoppable. Justice is the solution, and peace is the reward. A new era of peace is required to preserve humanity, and our generation will undoubtedly be the ones to achieve it.

2nd Place: 11th-12th Grade

Josie E., Little Rock Central Highschool

Destigmatizing Mental Health in Arkansas

In 1933, the CCC began to establish facilities atop Arkansas’ Mt. Nebo. In 1960, after four years of construction, my grandpa and his father built a wooden cabin directly above a natural spring, where I spent my childhood. Later in life however, I started to suffer from the roller coaster of emotions that depression and anxiety provide. Piles of clothes and trash littered the floor of my room, my GPA dropped, nightmares took monopoly of my dreams. I went through a laundry list of bad habits, all which came back to bite me and I realized I needed to find a more positive coping mechanism. What started as neighborhood walks turned into three mile hikes, and I found that watching the urban fish in drainage ditches or tramping through woods, hearing the dead leaves crunching beneath my feet, allowed me to take a deep breath.

Today, Arkansas has a significantly higher teen suicide rate than the national average, a rate that has gone up 41% since the year 2000. The utilization of Arkansas’ abundance of nature could be the key to bringing that rate down. A recent Stanford study found that people who walked in a natural area for 90 minutes decreased activity in the part of the brain associated with depression. Most of the world’s population lives in urban centers, and finding natural areas to explore could be challenging. However, Arkansas is primarily rural and has 52 state parks, not to mention hundreds of sites, such as waterfalls, caves, lakes, and natural landmarks.

Arkansas should implement a mental health program that utilizes arguably our greatest resource: nature. This would include additional field trips to state parks in schools, or a senior citizen program that immerses residents in nature more often. This initiative would also include increased outdoor workspaces and further advertisement of state parks to all demographics.

It is up to this generation to destigmatize mental illness. Younger generations have an accepting view of mental health care and are outspoken when it comes to treatment such as therapy and medication. Therefore, it would be proactive for our generation to set up an easy-access, mental health program that would benefit generations to come.

I recently began to feel myself creeping into a depressive episode, so I decided to take a trip to Mt. Nebo. As I drove up the winding roads, feeling my ears clog up the higher I went, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of relief. The waterfall still plummeted off of the mossy cliff face. The natural spring still burbled up fresh, cold water. The deer families, though cautious, still came close with the hope of watermelon and corn. The sun still set in the west at Sunset Point, and rose in the east at the corresponding Sunrise Point. Nature is a cycle; it’s enduring. Although life is chaotic and unpredictable, nature is constant and that can be reassuring. The key to a more peaceful Arkansas comes from within. After all, outer peace starts with inner peace.

3rd Place: 11th-12th Grade

Caroline C., Bentonville High School

The problem with peace originates as a result of its inherent subjectivity. While one could envision a tangible and authentic future where humanity resided in serenity with others, an individual’s methods of implementing such will vary as one’s experiences define the conclusions they arrive at. Peace, however altruistic, bears the likeness of utopia– appealing, yet virtually impossible. The definition of peace, according to the Oxford English Dictionary, entails “freedom from disturbance; tranquility.” Though life might be made easier if one had little disturbance, it would consequently be made less rich as disturbance, conflicts, and trials are necessary for the growth of the human mind, body, and soul.

When asked to cast my mind into the future years of Arkansas, I do not envision a state free from disturbance. In an age of upcoming voices, disturbances are vital to the steps needed to end the aggressive severance between people, divisions that have been buried in the soil of our state and continue to threaten the harmony of life. I envision a state of rising where the current voiceless can be heard from rooftops sharing radical ideas on inclusion, racial justice, and religious freedom of all forms. I envision a state where children reach high school knowing that George Washington, while greatly admired, had slaves and never spoke against it. I envision a state where prior historical and cultural normativities pertaining to people are shifted forward into seeing a person for the individual rather than aspects of the individual. By addressing one another with sonder and empathy, each of the aforementioned issues can be solved. As the myopia of mankind is discarded and the lens in which one can view the world is widened, one can learn to not only see oneself but the Other, and in turn, perceive life on a broader spectrum. The actions noted above move strides ahead of our current state and must be taken by the present and future generations to breach the apparent void between people, not only in Arkansas but everywhere. If we, collectively, are able to shed light on the truth of our past and present, peace, or rather change, is attainable and near.

There can be no certainty upon visualizing a future Arkansas. In a time where reality can change overnight, the conviction of my words are lacking as no one could foresee the events that will come to pass. All that is left is a hope that the coldness of humanity warms and expands minds to sustain and see each other, and see that we are all small things in a megalithic universe, and that is a beautiful thing. Our existence is what we have in common. Recognizing such and recovering from past errors is essential. When asked to cast my mind into the future of Arkansas, I do not see a future without disturbances. Rather, I see a future where disruptions foster change and newfound resilience, and we will receive this. Of this, one can be sure.

Gaby N., Riverview High School

Peace Essay

Arkansas has several issues just like a lot of other places in the world, but as of right now education, climate change and budget issues seem to be the immediate problems that need to be worked on. The people of the State of Arkansas need to work together and find solutions to these problems instead of fighting about them and develop a peaceful future. We need to think about the ways that everyone can work together and contribute to the future. Maybe if we invested more into our education system and were able to teach children at a young age how to look at the world in a way that they could come up with solutions for not only the problems we have here but the planet entirely. Also if all of us would think about changing one little thing on a daily basis this could add up to a major change later in life, think about how much water we use or a way to recycle more instead of just throwing something away or even as simple as just not using as much power as you did the day before.

If everyone did these little things everyday maybe we would start seeing the changes we want, instead of saying I’ll do it later or someone else can do that. If everyone took these practices into everything we did the world would definitely be a more peaceful place.

Ten years from now I will hopefully be a nurse or in school getting my degree and moving to a different country. I want to be able to help people and try to make the world a better place. I don’t know if I’m going to get married or have kids, it just depends on how the future is. If I don’t then I’m going to adopt kids, because a lot of kids don’t have homes or the environment in which they live isn’t good, sometimes people just need a chance to show who they could be in life with the right environment and love.

People say they want peace in the world and no fighting but that isn’t how our world is made. Conflict and peace balance out our world, things won’t always be fair. A lot of things happen for a reason, to teach us a lesson and it’s our choice to learn from our mistakes so that hopefully we won’t make the same one again. A Lot has happened to me this year and last year and it wasn’t all good and I feel like I have changed a lot from the person I was, this is what molds us into the person we are and can help us shape the future. I see a lot of people that come from violence and they never truly have a role model or someone they can look up to and I want to give them hope.

Share this:

' src=

  • Copy shortlink
  • Report this content
  • Manage subscriptions

Civics Education Essay Contest

NCSC's 2022 Civics Education Essay Contest

national peace essay contest 2021

NCSC's Civics Education Essay Contest gives 3rd-12th grade students the opportunity to understand and explain the importance and the role of the United States government. Winners receive a total of $3,000 in scholarship money.

The contest question is based on the American Bar Association's annual Law Day theme, which in 2022 is "Toward a More Perfect Union: The Constitution in Times of Change."

2022's Essay Contest question:

Which amendment to the u.s. constitution has made the biggest difference in people’s lives explain how and why..

Submit your entry using the form below. This is the preferred method of entry. However, hand-written essays may be submitted by mail to NCSC, c/o Deirdre Roesch, 300 Newport Avenue, Williamsburg, Va., 23185. If submitting my mail, please include the following on separate piece of paper: full name, school name, city, state, phone number, email (if applicable), teacher name and teacher email (if applicable).

  • See contest rules and regulations .
  • Download flyer to share with students.

A total of $3,000 in scholarship money will be awarded to the winners.

9th-12th grade:

  • One (1) First Place: $1,000
  • One (1) Second Place: $500
  • One (1) Third Place: $250

6th-8th grade:

  • One (1) First Place: $400
  • One (1) Second Place: $200
  • One (1) Third Place: $100

3rd-5th grade:

  • One (1) First Place: $300
  • One (1) Second Place: $150

Email Contest Manager  Deirdre Roesch with questions about the essay contest.

2024 Essay Contest

NCSC's Civics Education Essay Contest gives 3rd-12th grade students the opportunity to understand and explain the importance and the role of the United States government.  Each student must have an email address and submit their essay using the link below. The contest ends at midnight on March 22. Good luck!

Submit your essay

Elementary School - Justice Sandra Day O'Connor believed that people should take part in their communities and government. What does it mean to be involved in your community? Can you think of ways you can help make your school or neighborhood a better place? (100 words)

Middle and High School - Justice Sandra Day O'Connor stressed the importance of civic engagement. Discuss the role she believed citizens should play in shaping their communities and government. Why did she think that civic participation is so important to democracy? (250 words)

  • Informational Video
  • Contest Rules
  • Contest Flyer
  • Partner Packet and Social Media information

Email Molly Justice if you have any questions.

Contest history

Elementary/Middle school: The First Amendment protects freedom of speech. What happens when people are free to say anything they want in person or online? For example, yelling "fire" in a crowded room or posting hateful words on social media. What kind of free speech situations require a judge or police officer to get involved to keep the peace? High school: In 2021, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that a high school cheerleader could not be punished in school for using curse words on social media when commenting about not making the cheer team while she was off school grounds. Do you think students should be held to the same standard when exercising their First Amendment right to freedom of speech whether they’re on or off school property? Decide if there are circumstances where students should be punished by a court of law for what they say or write to maintain civility.

Read the Press Release Read the winning essays

Question: Which Amendment to the U.S. Constitution has made the biggest difference in people’s lives? Explain how and why.

Read the press release. Read the winning entries Watch the winner's video

Question: What does the rule of law mean to you?

Read the winning entries.

Elementary/Middle school: Why is it so important that all citizens have the right to vote? High school: Is voting a right, privilege or responsibility? Why?

Read the press release. Read the winning entries.

national peace essay contest 2021

Customer Reviews

A writer who is an expert in the respective field of study will be assigned

Dr.Jeffrey (PhD)

  • Paraphrasing
  • Research Paper
  • Research Proposal
  • Scholarship Essay
  • Speech Presentation
  • Statistics Project
  • Thesis Proposal

United States Institute of Peace

Home ▶ Press

USIP Announces National Peace Essay Contest Winners

Thursday, June 30, 2011

News Type: Press Release

The U.S. Institute of Peaceis pleased to announce the winners of the 24th Annual National Peace Essay Contest. Kathryn Botto of Texas, Lily Zhang of Pennsylvania, and Meredith Pochily of New York have earned $10,000, $5,000 and $2,500 scholarships as the national first, second, and third place finishers, respectively.

For Immediate Release: June 27, 2011 Contact: Allison Sturma , 202-429-4725

(Washington) -The U.S. Institute of Peace (USIP) is pleased to announce the winners of the 24th Annual National Peace Essay Contest. Kathryn Botto of Texas, Lily Zhang of Pennsylvania, and Meredith Pochily of New York have earned $10,000, $5,000 and $2,500 scholarships as the national first, second, and third place finishers, respectively.

Each year, the National Peace Essay Contest challenges American high school students living in the U.S. and abroad to research and submit an analytical essay on a theme related to the Institute's work on conflict management. This year’s topic was “Governance, Corruption and Conflict.” Winners are chosen from each state or category and receive $1,000 in scholarship money. They are also invited to a week-long educational program in Washington D.C. to further explore the topic through simulations, briefings with foreign policy leaders, and meeting with Members of Congress.

Richard H. Solomon, president of USIP, said, “All this year's winners are to be congratulated. In examining a complex, real world challenge, these students demonstrated a strong awareness and understanding of international issues."

Learn more about the National Peace Essay Contest .

The United States Institute of Peace (USIP) provides the analysis, training and tools to help to prevent, manage and end violent international conflicts, promote stability and professionalize the field of peacebuilding. Learn more at www.usip.org .

Related News

U.S. Institute of Peace Announces Pétronille Vaweka the 2023 Women Building Peace Award Recipient

U.S. Institute of Peace Announces Pétronille Vaweka the 2023 Women Building Peace Award Recipient

Friday, December 8, 2023

(Washington, D.C.) – The U.S. Institute of Peace (USIP) is honored to announce Pétronille Vaweka of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) as the recipient of the 2023 Women Building Peace Award.

U.S. Institute of Peace Announces Four Finalists for 2023 Women Building Peace Award

U.S. Institute of Peace Announces Four Finalists for 2023 Women Building Peace Award

Monday, October 30, 2023

The United States Institute of Peace is honored to announce the four finalists for the 2023 Women Building Peace Award.

USIP Peace Teachers Program Announces 2023 Cohort

Wednesday, June 14, 2023

(Washington, D.C.) – The U.S. Institute of Peace (USIP) is pleased to announce the selection of the 2023 Peace Teachers Program cohort, consisting of 22 middle and high school teachers from 21 U.S. states and Washington, D.C. The full list of participants can be found here.

Education & Training

U.S. Institute of Peace Opens Nominations for 2023 Women Building Peace Award

Monday, June 5, 2023

(Washington, D.C.) – The U.S. Institute of Peace (USIP) announces nominations are open for the 2023 Women Building Peace Award. This prestigious annual award honors courageous women in civil society who are building peace in countries impacted by violent conflict.

USIP Announces María Eugenia Mosquera Riascos as the 2022 Women Building Peace Award Recipient

USIP Announces María Eugenia Mosquera Riascos as the 2022 Women Building Peace Award Recipient

Wednesday, November 30, 2022

(Washington, D.C.) – The U.S. Institute of Peace (USIP) is honored to announce María Eugenia Mosquera Riascos of Colombia as the recipient of the Institute’s 2022 Women Building Peace Award.

Diane M. Omalley

Customer Reviews

Need a personal essay writer? Try EssayBot which is your professional essay typer.

  • EssayBot is an essay writing assistant powered by Artificial Intelligence (AI).
  • Given the title and prompt, EssayBot helps you find inspirational sources, suggest and paraphrase sentences, as well as generate and complete sentences using AI.
  • If your essay will run through a plagiarism checker (such as Turnitin), don’t worry. EssayBot paraphrases for you and erases plagiarism concerns.
  • EssayBot now includes a citation finder that generates citations matching with your essay.

What is the native language of the person who will write my essay for me?

How to order our online writing services..

There is nothing easier than using our essay writer service. Here is how everything works at :

  • You fill out an order form. Make sure to provide us with all the details. If you have any comments or additional files, upload them. This will help your writer produce the paper that will exactly meet your needs.
  • You pay for the order with our secure payment system.
  • Once we receive the payment confirmation, we assign an appropriate writer to work on your project. You can track the order's progress in real-time through the personal panel. Also, there is an option to communicate with your writer, share additional files, and clarify all the details.
  • As soon as the paper is done, you receive a notification. Now, you can read its preview version carefully in your account. If you are satisfied with our professional essay writing services, you confirm the order and download the final version of the document to your computer. If, however, you consider that any alterations are needed, you can always request a free revision. All our clients can use free revisions within 14 days after delivery. Please note that the author will revise your paper for free only if the initial requirements for the paper remain unchanged. If the revision is not applicable, we will unconditionally refund your account. However, our failure is very unlikely since almost all of our orders are completed issue-free and we have 98% satisfied clients.

As you can see, you can always turn to us with a request "Write essay for me" and we will do it. We will deliver a paper of top quality written by an expert in your field of study without delays. Furthermore, we will do it for an affordable price because we know that students are always looking for cheap services. Yes, you can write the paper yourself but your time and nerves are worth more!

  • Words to pages
  • Pages to words

Gain recognition with the help of my essay writer

Generally, our writers, who will write my essay for me, have the responsibility to show their determination in writing the essay for you, but there is more they can do. They can ease your admission process for higher education and write various personal statements, cover letters, admission write-up, and many more. Brilliant drafts for your business studies course, ranging from market analysis to business proposal, can also be done by them. Be it any kind of a draft- the experts have the potential to dig in deep before writing. Doing ‘my draft’ with the utmost efficiency is what matters to us the most.

  • History Category
  • Psychology Category
  • Informative Category
  • Analysis Category
  • Business Category
  • Economics Category
  • Health Category
  • Literature Category
  • Review Category
  • Sociology Category
  • Technology Category

What We Guarantee

  • No Plagiarism
  • On Time Delevery
  • Privacy Policy
  • Complaint Resolution

Gain efficiency with my essay writer. Hire us to write my essay for me with our best essay writing service!

Enhance your writing skills with the writers of penmypaper and avail the 20% flat discount, using the code ppfest20.

IMAGES

  1. Peace Essay Contest Awards Ceremony 2021

    national peace essay contest 2021

  2. National Peace Essay Contest

    national peace essay contest 2021

  3. 2021 Div II Winning Essays

    national peace essay contest 2021

  4. Marvelous National Peace Essay Contest ~ Thatsnotus

    national peace essay contest 2021

  5. International Young People’s Peace Essay Competition 2021

    national peace essay contest 2021

  6. Goi Peace Foundation International Essay Contest for Young People 2021

    national peace essay contest 2021

COMMENTS

  1. National High School Essay Contest

    Contest deadline: April 3, 2023 Download the study guide for the 2023 National High School Essay Contest. This study guide provides students with a basic introduction to the topic and some additional context that can assist them in answering the question.

  2. Contests for Students

    For the 2021 competition, USIP's category is "Exploring Peace in a World of Conflict," with featured resources that blend research, data, and real-life examples of peacebuilding in action. For more information, check out our Academic WorldQuest page! National High School Essay Contest

  3. National High School Essay Contest

    The application deadline is 11:59 p.m. EDT on April 1, 2024 2024 Essay Contest Topic This year, AFSA celebrates the 100th anniversary of the United States Foreign Service.

  4. Peace Essay Contest

    Created to give an opportunity for visually impaired young people to express their feelings of peace, the International Essay Contest is a staple of Lions clubs around the world. Lions work with local schools and area families to identify young people who are interested in participating and who could benefit from this program.

  5. PDF Making Peace Possible GUIDE

    The 2021 essay contest focuses on the important role Foreign Service Oficers play in collaborating with partners to prevent or mediate violent conflict and build peace. It challenges you to expand your understanding of peacebuilding as an efective foreign policy tool and to explore what makes a peacebuilding initiative successful.

  6. 2021 High School Essay Contest Winning Essay

    Mariam Parray: 2021 Essay Contest Winner. On December 17, 2010, Tunisian street vendor Mohamed Bouazizi set himself on fire in protest against corruption and mistreatment by police. This resulted in a wave of civil unrest and demonstrations known as the Jasmine Revolution, which sparked the various movements of the Arab Spring (Yerkes).

  7. Information Session on the 2021 National High School Essay Contest

    The 2021 topic, "Diplomats and Peacebuilders: Powerful Partners," challenges students to look at how United States Foreign Service Officers—or diplomats—partnered with peacebuilders to mediate or prevent violent conflict in a specific situation.

  8. PDF 2021 Peace Essay Contest

    2021 Peace Essay Contest "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has." - Margaret Mead, Anthropologist Recipient of the Planetary Citizen of the Year Award, 1978. Division I (Grades 11-12) & Division II (Grades 9-10): 500-1000 words

  9. National Peace Essay Contest

    USIP is proud to partner with the American Foreign Service Association (AFSA) on the annual National High School Essay Contest for 2016-2017. The contest engages high school students each year in learning and writing about issues of peace and conflict, encouraging appreciation for diplomacy's role in building partnerships that can advance peace-building and protect national security.

  10. Goi Peace Foundation

    Deadline: 15 June 2021 This annual international essay contest is organized in an effort to harness the energy, creativity and initiative of the world's youth in promoting a culture of peace and sustainable development.

  11. International Essay Contest for Young People

    Guidelines for the 2024 International Essay Contest for Young People will be announced on this website and through the Goi Peace Foundation's mailing list and facebook page by mid-February 2024. Congratulatory Message from the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology of Japan READ THE MESSAGE Theme

  12. National Peace Essay Contest

    The National Peace Essay Contest, a scholarship sponsored by the United States Institute of Peace, gives students the chance to voice their opinions on matters regarding international peace and conflict. By administering this award, the institute hopes to promote thoughtful discussion between youth, educators and national leaders alike.

  13. 2021 Peace Essay Contest Launched

    The Peace Studies program at Bethany Theological Seminary is now accepting entries for its 2021 Peace Essay Contest. Made possible by the Jennie Calhoun Baker Endowment, the contest has a deadline of May 15, 2021. Essays should be 1500-2000 words and written in response to the following prompt:

  14. Goi Peace Foundation International Essay Contest for Young People 2021

    Deadline: June 15, 2021. Applications are open for the Goi Peace Foundation International Essay Contest for Young People 2021.This annual essay contest is organized in an effort to harness the energy, creativity and initiative of the world's youth in promoting a culture of peace and sustainable development.

  15. National Peace Essay Contest DC Awards Week

    Thursday, February 8, 2024 By: Mark Feierstein; Keith Mines; Mary Speck, Ph.D.; Ricardo Zúniga El Salvador's president, Nayib Bukele, celebrated a landslide electoral victory on Feb. 4, far outstripping his nearest competitor. "The opposition was pulverized," Bukele told jubilant crowds outside the National Palace on election night.

  16. 2021 General Prize Essay Contest

    First Prize: $6,000 Second Prize: $3,000 Third Prize: $2,000 Selection Process The Proceedings staff members will evaluate every essay and screen the top essays to the Naval Institute's Editorial Board composed of serving Sea Service professionals. Announcement of the Winners

  17. PDF 2021 International Essay Contest for Young People

    2021 International Essay Contest ... The Goi Peace Foundation . www.goipeace.or.jp . October 31. st, 2021. 2021 International Essay Contest for Young People . List of Winners *All ages are as of June 15, 2021. 1. st. Prize . ... Japanese National Commission for UNESCO, Japan Private High School

  18. High School Essay Contest

    The annual MCC U.S. National Peace & Justice Ministries essay contest highlights the perspectives of youth on significant public policy issues and promotes the involvement of young people in faithful witness to government authorities. Submissions may be in English or Spanish. (A continuación véase la información en español.)

  19. 2021 Essay Contest Winners

    2021 Essay Contest Winners. Congratulations to our 2021 Peace Week Essay Winners: Grades 7 - 8: • 1st place -tie: Tod Videll, "My vision for a more peaceful Arkansas," Christ Little Rock. • 1st place - tie: Hunter Williford, "Arkansas Peace Essay", Pleasant Plains; Homeschool. • 3rd place: Wyatt Sharp, "A New Class," Oak ...

  20. Civics Education Essay Contest

    2024 Essay Contest. NCSC's Civics Education Essay Contest gives 3rd-12th grade students the opportunity to understand and explain the importance and the role of the United States government. Each student must have an email address and submit their essay using the link below. The contest ends at midnight on March 22. Good luck! Submit your essay

  21. The National Peace Essay Contest

    #21 in Global Rating Services Nursing Business and Economics Management Marketing +130 724 Finished Papers Please note All our papers are written from scratch. To ensure high quality of writing, the pages number is limited for short deadlines. If you want to order more pages, please choose longer Deadline (Urgency). 12 Customer reviews

  22. USIP Announces National Peace Essay Contest Winners

    For Immediate Release: June 27, 2011 Contact: Allison Sturma, 202-429-4725 (Washington) -The U.S. Institute of Peace (USIP) is pleased to announce the winners of the 24th Annual National Peace Essay Contest. Kathryn Botto of Texas, Lily Zhang of Pennsylvania, and Meredith Pochily of New York have earned $10,000, $5,000 and $2,500 scholarships as the national first, second, and third place ...

  23. National Peace Essay Contest 2011

    National Peace Essay Contest 2011. You will be notified once the essay is done. You will be sent a mail on your registered mail id about the details of the final draft and how to get it. Jalan Zamrud Raya Ruko Permata Puri 1 Blok L1 No. 10, Kecamatan Cimanggis, Kota Depok, Jawa Barat 16452.

  24. National Peace Essay Contest For High School Students

    Jan 27, 2021. Great! I am on it. Read more. REVIEWS HIRE. Rebecca Geach #15 in Global Rating ... National Peace Essay Contest For High School Students, Online Essay Editor, The Collapse Of The Soviet Union And Its Impact On South Africa Essay, Fani Cyclone Essay In Hindi, History Essay Topics On The Reconstruction, Guide Basic Cover Letter ...

  25. How Boris Pistorius is transforming the German armed forces

    But Mr Pistorius faces a huge task. Germany took its "peace dividend" at the end of the cold war all too seriously. Over the past three decades the number of soldiers in the Bundeswehr ...