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The Center for Nonviolence and Peace Studies is an internationally recognized academic gathering place where students, scholars, educators–the change makers–come together to promote mutual understanding, reconcile conflicts, and build peaceful, sustainable, and inclusive communities.

Here students gain expertise in human rights and peace studies through interdisciplinary academic coursework, nonviolence training, and hands-on experience. Faculty and scholars form unique interdisciplinary partnerships and access research on social justice and nonviolence–including one of the largest human rights data sets in the world.

Donate to The Center for Nonviolence and Peace Studies here

International Nonviolence Summer Institute 2026

The 27th Annual International Nonviolence Summer Institute 2026 at the University of Rhode Island will be an on-campus nonviolence training/conference experience! Join our
excellent trainees from all over the world for a memorable and unique program!

Join us here!

Center Updates

Trainer Spotlight

The Center for Nonviolence and Peace Studies at the University of Rhode Island (URI) recognized Dr. Charles Collyer with the International Nonviolence Trainer’s Award on October 9, 2024.

The Full Story

Celebrating the Legacy of the Rev. Dr. Bernard Lafayette, Jr. - We invite you to join us in honoring the life and legacy of Bernard Lafayette by watching the livestream of his funeral service. Bernard Lafayette was a towering figure in the Civil Rights Movement and a lifelong advocate for nonviolence, justice, and human dignity. We are sharing this livestream so that those who wish to […]
New research challenges a common assumption: atrocities do not happen only in autocracies - New research challenges a common assumption: atrocities do not happen only in autocracies. This database tracks 40 years of government-linked abuses and argues that democracies can cross that line too. Read the article here.
Honoring the Outstanding Life of Dr. Bernard LaFayette, Jr. - Honoring the Outstanding Life of Dr. Bernard LaFayette, Jr.(July 29, 1940 – March 5, 2026) We honor the exemplary and inspirational life and legacy of Rev. Dr. Bernard LaFayette, Jr., fondly known as Doc. He was the first director of the University of Rhode Island’s Center for Nonviolence and Peace Studies from 1999 to 2009, […]

A Tribute to Dr. Arthur B. Stein (Art)

Dr. Arthur B. Stein, beloved professor, mentor, and founding member of the URI Center for Nonviolence and Peace Studies, devoted over fifty years to teaching and spreading the message of peace. His legacy of compassion, wisdom, and nonviolent activism continues to inspire all who knew him.