A Candidate Zone of Peace: the step-by-step process

The following guideline for a site to become a Candidate Zone of Peace is used by the King County Branch of ZOPIF in Washington state, USA, and may serve as an example for other ZOPIF branches. When there is no local branch, ZOPIF takes responsibility for administering all branch-related activities listed below.

  1. A community or individual expresses interest in Zones of Peace. A presentation about the concept and vision can then be set up in conjunction with ZOPIF.
  2. Based upon feasibility of the site and its community meeting the qualifications for a Candidate Zone of Peace, ZOPIF extends an invitation to that community to begin the candidacy process.
  3. During this process, a ZOPIF representative assists the community and keeps ZOPIF informed of the progress being made.
  4. Community members declare their intent to establish the site as a Candidate Zone of Peace ("Candidate Site"), by taking the following initial steps:
    1. Individually formulate a definition of peace and then, through discussion, collectively arrive at the vision of peace for the site.
    2. Secure the sponsoring body's endorsement for the site to become first a Candidate Site and then an official Zone of Peace.
    3. Create a task list to complete the qualification process.
    4. Establish the custodial body and determine its responsibilities.
    5. Appoint two representatives so that communications with ZOPIF are maintained at all times.
    6. Participate with the custodial body in suitable training in peace education, including non-violent conflict resolution and mediation, and any supplemental programs.
    7. Determine a code of conduct for those using the site that is appropriate to its cultural norms and environmental circumstances. This code could describe the respectful behavior expected of custodians, members, participants and visitors alike, as well as the kind of behavior inappropriate to the site. For example, in the case of a park, inappropriate behavior might include altering the landscape, loud or disturbing noise, overnight camping, or activities such as campfires and use of fireworks.
    8. Educate others who use the site about the Zones of Peace concept, the code of conduct and any peace training opportunities.
    9. Inform the neighboring communities about the goals and activities of this process while nurturing a mutually respectful relationship with them.
  1. During this initial period, the communities associated with the site, Candidate Sites, official Zones of Peace and ZOPIF are able to network, brainstorm ideas and resolve issues, thereby providing reciprocal support on the peace journey.
  2. When the community and the custodial and sponsoring bodies succeed in maintaining the site in the spirit of a Zone of Peace for a minimum of six months, the sponsoring body may want to submit the "Application for Candidate Zone of Peace" to ZOPIF.
  3. ZOPIF reviews the Application and decides whether all qualifications have been met. If so, ZOPIF then recognizes the site as a Candidate Zone of Peace. However, should candidate status not be granted upon first application, ZOPIF would inform the sponsoring body, provide specific recommendations, and offer assistance to encourage successful results on subsequent review.

With Candidate Zone of Peace status secured, the sponsoring body and ZOPIF will request the appropriate governmental authority to officially recognize the site as a Zone of Peace.