The Community Peacemaker Teams, widely known as CPT, stands as a dedicated international organization with a powerful mission: to support peace workers actively engaged in conflict zones across the globe. Initially established as Christian Peacemaker Teams, CPT has evolved while maintaining its steadfast commitment to reducing violence and fostering peace. Its approach is both direct and deeply rooted in nonviolence, working to transform dangerous situations into opportunities for lasting peace.

A Commitment to Peace: CPT's Core Mission

At the heart of CPT's work is a clear strategy for achieving its ambitious aims. The organization meticulously deploys its teams to frontline areas, where they work tirelessly on several critical fronts. Their efforts are designed to actively lower levels of violence through peaceful means, often employing nonviolent direct action. This can mean physically interposing themselves in volatile situations or standing in solidarity with affected communities. Furthermore, a crucial aspect of their mission involves comprehensive human rights documentation, meticulously recording abuses and bringing them to light. They also provide essential nonviolence training, empowering local communities and individuals with the skills to address conflict peacefully. In essence, CPT encapsulates its philosophy with a compelling phrase: they are "committed to reducing violence by 'getting in the way'." This statement powerfully conveys their proactive, on-the-ground presence in areas burdened by conflict.

CPT's Global Reach and Dedicated Force

CPT’s impactful work is made possible by a dedicated force of activists spread across various challenging regions. Currently, the organization maintains a full-time peace force comprising over 30 activists. These brave individuals are active in diverse locations, including Colombia, Iraq, the West Bank, Chiapas, Mexico, and Kenora, Canada, addressing specific local conflicts and supporting vulnerable populations. Complementing this full-time cadre is a robust network of over 150 reservists. These invaluable supporters dedicate between two weeks and two months each year to serve on location, bolstering CPT's activities and extending its capacity to respond to global needs. This blend of full-time dedication and flexible support allows Community Peacemaker Teams to maintain a sustained and responsive presence where it is most needed, making a tangible difference in the lives of many.

Frequently Asked Questions About Community Peacemaker Teams

What is CPT?

CPT stands for Community Peacemaker Teams, an international organization dedicated to supporting peace workers in conflict areas worldwide. It was previously known as Christian Peacemaker Teams.

What are CPT's main goals?

CPT aims to lower levels of violence, engage in nonviolent direct action, document human rights abuses, and provide nonviolence training in direct action. They summarize their work as "committed to reducing violence by 'getting in the way'."

Where does CPT operate?

CPT currently has activists working in several global locations, including Colombia, Iraq, the West Bank, Chiapas, Mexico, and Kenora, Canada.

How many activists does CPT have?

The organization maintains a full-time peace force of over 30 activists, supported by more than 150 reservists who contribute on-location service annually.