Build the Truce – inspired by the Olympic Games, opens at IWMN

A film launched tomorrow (20 July May) and co-curated by a University of Manchester lecturer and shown at IWM North, part of Imperial War Museums, is to argue that winning the peace is just as important as winning the war. Tim Jacoby, who is a senior lecturer in conflict studies, says more people should be aware that the violence did not stop after the signing of ceasefire agreements in Iraq, Northern Ireland, Sierra Leone, El Salvador and Kosovo. Dating back to the 9th century BC, an Olympic Games 'Truce' was created to enable athletes from Greece's warring cities to travel and compete in safety. Reinstated at the 1992 Olympic Games, the truce continues to exist during Olympic and Paralympic Games today. Drawing on this theme, IWM (Imperial War Museums) launched the innovative learning initiative Build the Truce, which works with eyewitnesses and educational and family groups across the country to investigate the concepts of truce, conflict and resolution and their relevance in the 21st century. This summer, at IWM North (from 20 July) and IWM London, new Build the Truce displays, will show the s and insights collected throughout this project. IWM North will present Build the Truce: the Big Picture Show - an immersive, 360 degree display of excerpts and footage.