Peace Action
Vredesactie is an important force in Belgian civil society, bringing together expertise in research, legal work and direct non-violent action. When the organisation began showing signs of a serious internal crisis, it asked us to help address the underlying causes. Through interim coordination, we helped renew its structure and culture and rebuild trust. With a new strategy and a motivated team, Vredesactie is once again ready to make its full impact in the wider world.
The client
Vredesactie is a socio-cultural organisation working towards a world without armed conflict. Through a clear pacifist vision, campaigns, non-violent direct action and movement building, it challenges the political and economic systems in Belgium and Europe that sustain war.
The question
The board of Vredesactie asked us to respond to urgent concerns from the team. The signs of a serious crisis were clear, but its underlying causes—and the way forward—were not. Experienced colleagues were leaving, and tensions had left the team so stuck that the organisation’s future was at risk. Jihad and Els worked with the board to develop an approach that would bring clarity and help the organisation regain control.
Els stepped in as interim coordinator to rebuild safety and collaboration within the team. She developed a new people policy, and new colleagues were recruited, including a permanent coordinator. Together with the team, board and volunteers, we created an organisational structure with broad support. Els and Koenraad then translated the new future strategy into a concrete strategic plan.
The impact
Vredesactie now has a renewed team full of motivation and energy, whose members understand and draw on one another’s strengths. The organisation has a clear structure, a healthy culture and an inspiring future strategy with broad support. Its way of working is effective, and Vredesactie once again feels ready to help shape the future.
The challenge
The challenge was to engage constructively with conflict—both between individuals and between different parts of the movement. This required actively rebuilding safety and placing genuine care for people at the heart of the process. At the same time, we needed the courage to put the mission first, set clear boundaries around behaviour and make difficult decisions.
The collaboration
Choosing interim coordination was crucial to rebuilding care and safety, both in one-to-one relationships and across the team. It also gave us a rapid understanding of the organisation’s strategic and operational priorities. Regular dialogue between the team, board, volunteers and coordinator was established quickly. Clear lines of communication and frequent coordination created a shared way forward.
Three tips from the client
- Be willing to ask for help. When you are stuck in the mud, it is difficult to pull yourself—and your colleagues—free.
- Make sure the board gives the interim coordinator a clear mandate. Clarity about authority creates safety.
- Be willing to slow down in order to move faster. By investing in trust and safety first, you build the support needed to make difficult decisions..
“S&L created a safe environment in which roles and responsibilities were clear. At crucial moments, S&L was able to identify the heart of the problem and immediately connect it to a practical plan of action. S&L knows how to translate care into practice and create the conditions in which difficult processes can be addressed. S&L's leadership is efficient, effective and inspires trust.
”
“My work with Vredesactie was a gift. It is an important organisation, full of committed experts and warm-hearted people. I was grateful to make a difference for this dedicated team and its clear mission.
”
Does this case appeal to you?
We would be happy to discuss your organisation’s specific needs. Two of our consultants will meet with you to explore your request and develop an initial proposal. Based on your feedback and further co-creation, we will then prepare a final proposal.
