The aim of this project from a team led by Mark Freeman of the Institute for Integrated Transitions (IFIT), is to launch and steer a globally diverse, cross-sectoral community of practice on de/polarization. This initiative will facilitate new research agendas and collaborations; offer trainings and peer support; and promote the exchange of critical lessons across fields and regions.

The Global Initiative on Polarization, launched in late 2021, has already produced an actor-mapping report, a literature review, expert interviews, thematic and country-specific events (in-person, hybrid, and virtual), discussion papers, network-building, and a dedicated website featuring original print and audiovisual materials published by The Economist in connection with the 2024 “Worlds Apart – Lessons on Polarization from Global Leaders” event in New York.

Building on this work, the team envisions a two-layered community:

An inner ring of 35–40 members, including TWCF-recommended de/polarization researchers, that will meet annually in person;

An outer ring of allies and experts who will engage selectively in community activities.

The community will convene thought-leaders and institutions from diverse geographies and sectors, including conflict resolution, academia, journalism, tech, and philanthropy. A large, annual flagship convening will focus on knowledge-sharing and problem-solving, strengthening community ties and creating a “conveyor belt” between cutting-edge research and global practice. It will invite approximately 75 participants. Additionally, five annual hybrid and online convenings will rotate across regional, country-specific, and thematic topics, helping shape the flagship event agenda.

This funding will also help produce:

A globally informed de/polarization playbook, based on IFIT’s three-part solutions spectrum: dialogue, narrative change, and structural reform.

A suite of practice-oriented publications and videos, including three global discussion papers, six op-eds, and a series of short videos spotlighting promising innovations in de/polarization. The primary  audience includes policymakers, journalists, civil society, and philanthropy.