Newcastle’s hedgehog lab has partnered with Conflict Dynamics International to innovate in peacebuilding.
- Akord AI, a digital platform, aims to empower peacebuilders globally using advanced AI.
- Sudan’s conflict underscores the urgent need for such tools, with other global areas in view.
- This AI tool seeks to democratise peacebuilding resources, making them accessible to all involved.
- Akord AI provides tailored support with both research and technical peacebuilding efforts.
Newcastle-based hedgehog lab, in collaboration with Conflict Dynamics International (CDI), has developed Akord AI — a pioneering digital platform that serves as an AI-powered co-pilot for individuals engaged in peacebuilding. The purpose of Akord AI is to democratise peacebuilding by equipping civic actors and ordinary citizens with the vital insights, knowledge, and tools required for effective peacebuilding.
The initial focus of Akord AI is on Sudan, a country grappling with severe conflict which has led to significant displacement and humanitarian issues. Civic actors in Sudan, such as civil society organisations, women’s groups, youth movements, and political parties, have been at the forefront of delivering crucial aid and launching peace initiatives. Akord AI is designed to support these efforts by providing essential data and technical assistance.
Currently, the global landscape is tumultuous, with 56 ongoing conflicts, the highest number since the Second World War, leading to 117.3 million people being forcibly displaced. Additionally, in 2023 alone, conflict-related deaths numbered 162,000. These staggering figures highlight the acute need for a robust platform like Akord AI, which intends to roll out support globally to regions including Somalia, Syria, Libya, Yemen, and Congo.
Akord AI addresses the long-standing challenges faced by peacebuilders, such as the inaccessibility of reliable information, research capabilities, and technical skills. It offers custom-trained AI assistance to aid in research, technical queries, and exploring creative dialogues for mediation and governance. This platform provides an extensive digital library, including peace agreements and constitutional documents, accessible in both Arabic and English, ensuring the verifiability of its resources through automatic citations.
According to Sarat Pediredla, CEO of hedgehog lab, “Akord AI is one of the most inspiring projects that we’ve ever worked on.” Gerard Mc Hugh, founder and president of CDI, states that the platform addresses a critical gap by furnishing vital tools and data to those working for peace, promising to democratise access to peacebuilding resources. Akord AI is set to be a “game changer” for those involved in building sustainable peace.
Akord AI represents a significant step forward in providing vital support for global peacebuilding efforts, beginning with Sudan and expanding to other regions.
