Peacebuilding is sometimes perceived as taking action in response to an overt problem
of sectarianism or racism or a response to a particular incident in the community. For many years the tendency has been to leave things as they are and not to raise difficult or contentious issues, unless there is a problem which needs to be resolved. This toolkit will assist groups to address these problems where and when they exist. However, the toolkit will also encourage communities to be more proactive and to look at opportunities to enhance the quality of life for everyone in the area. It will encourage groups to focus on building more open and inclusive communities, where all sections of society feel welcome and feel able to openly express their identity and culture. This approach will focus on the strengths and assets of the community and encourage groups to look at how these can be used to promote peacebuilding at local level.