Mahdi Yahya Receives the International Bremen Peace Award 2026 for Pioneering Peace Work
A Historic Recognition for Peace of Art International at Bremen City Hall
On the evening of May 8, 2026, in the historic Bremen City Hall, Peace of Art International witnessed one of the most emotional and significant moments in its journey. During the official ceremony of the International Bremen Peace Award, organized by the German foundation die schwelle – Contributions to Peace, Peace of Art Founder and Chairman Mahdi Yahya was honored with the International Bremen Peace Award 2026 in the category of “Pioneering Peace Work.”
The prestigious recognition was awarded in acknowledgment of Yahya’s longstanding commitment to peacebuilding, intercultural dialogue, youth empowerment, humanitarian action, and the promotion of social cohesion through art and culture.
Founded in 2003, the International Bremen Peace Award is presented every two years by the Schwelle Foundation to individuals and organizations whose work serves as a model in the fields of peace, justice, human rights, reconciliation, social inclusion, and intercultural understanding. The award highlights exemplary initiatives that contribute to a more peaceful and equitable world and seeks to strengthen courage and hope in times marked by conflict and division. The Foundation itself has been supporting peace, justice, and social transformation initiatives worldwide since 1979. The award is regarded as one of Germany’s respected recognitions for grassroots and international peacebuilding efforts. (dieschwelle.de)
Recognition of a Vision Built Through Art and Dialogue
The jury selected Mahdi Yahya and Peace of Art International for their pioneering work in creating spaces for dialogue, creativity, and nonviolent conflict transformation through artistic and cultural initiatives. Through music, arts, education, and community engagement, Peace of Art has worked across social, religious, and cultural divides, particularly in Lebanon and throughout the region, offering young people and communities opportunities to connect, express themselves, and build resilience in challenging circumstances. (senatspressestelle.bremen.de)
The recognition comes at a time when societies around the world face increasing polarization, armed conflicts, displacement, and social fragmentation. By placing culture and human dignity at the center of its work, Peace of Art has demonstrated how creativity can become a powerful tool for peacebuilding and social transformation.
An Evening of Reflection, Solidarity, and Responsibility
Held in the iconic halls of Bremen’s historic City Hall, the ceremony gathered representatives of civil society, peace organizations, cultural institutions, policymakers, and supporters from Germany and beyond.
The evening focused not only on Mahdi Yahya’s personal journey but also on the broader message behind Peace of Art International and the importance of continuing to speak about the humanitarian realities facing Lebanon and communities affected by conflict and displacement.
Rather than being a traditional award ceremony, the event evolved into a meaningful space for reflection, dialogue, and solidarity. Through inspiring speeches, artistic performances, and open discussion, participants explored the role of culture, peace work, and civic engagement in addressing today’s global challenges.
A central part of the evening was an open conversation moderated by German journalist Thomas Joppig, who guided a discussion on peacebuilding, cultural engagement, and the responsibility of civil society organizations to amplify human stories that are often overlooked.
Opening of the Ceremony
The evening was opened by Annette Klasing, representing die schwelle Foundation, who welcomed guests, partners, supporters, and award recipients to Bremen City Hall.
In her introductory remarks, she emphasized the importance of recognizing individuals and organizations that continue to promote peace, solidarity, justice, and human dignity in a world increasingly marked by conflict, polarization, and uncertainty.
Her words set the tone for an evening dedicated not only to celebrating achievements but also to reflecting on the responsibilities that accompany peacebuilding work.
Music and the Voices of Young Generations
A special contribution to the ceremony came from students of Gesamtschule Ost Bremen, whose musical participation added a powerful cultural dimension to the event.
Their performance reflected the values that both the Bremen Peace Award and Peace of Art International seek to promote: inclusion, participation, creativity, and dialogue between generations and cultures.
The presence of young people throughout the ceremony served as a reminder that sustainable peace depends on empowering future generations and creating opportunities for them to engage actively in shaping society.
Why Mahdi Yahya Was Honored
In presenting the award, the organizers recognized Mahdi Yahya’s pioneering work in using art and culture as instruments for peacebuilding and social transformation.
Born in Lebanon’s Bekaa Valley, a region often affected by conflict and social challenges, Yahya developed a vision centered on a simple but powerful philosophy:
“Give a musical instrument instead of a weapon.”
Guided by this belief, he founded Peace of Art International in 2016 with the mission of promoting peace, dialogue, acceptance, and social cohesion through artistic and cultural initiatives.
Since its establishment, Peace of Art has organized hundreds of workshops, discussions, cultural activities, educational programs, and community initiatives, providing safe spaces where young people can express themselves creatively, develop new perspectives, and build connections across religious, cultural, and social divides.
Through music, theatre, dance, visual arts, photography, sports, media, and digital storytelling, the organization has empowered thousands of individuals while challenging discrimination, hate speech, radicalization, and violence.
A Moving Laudatio by Karoline Linnert
One of the most memorable moments of the evening was the laudatory speech delivered by Karoline Linnert, former Mayor of Bremen, former Senator of Finance, and patron of the International Bremen Peace Award.
In her laudatory speech during the award ceremony at Bremen City Hall, Karoline Linnert highlighted the growing challenges facing societies worldwide and emphasized the importance of individuals who respond to these challenges through practical, community-based initiatives that strengthen peace and human dignity.
Speaking about Mahdi Yahya and Peace of Art, she noted that Lebanon is a country marked by great diversity and complex social realities, where peaceful coexistence requires continuous effort and commitment. She praised Yahya’s vision of promoting peace through creativity and his belief in the philosophy of “Give a musical instrument instead of a weapon.”
Linnert reflected on the work of Peace of Art since its establishment in 2016, highlighting how the organization has created safe spaces for young people through music, theatre, dance, visual arts, photography, sports, and digital initiatives. Through these activities, young people are encouraged to express themselves creatively, develop new perspectives, and build connections across religious, cultural, and social divides.
She emphasized that in communities affected by conflict, discrimination, sectarianism, and radicalization, initiatives such as Peace of Art provide hope and opportunities for constructive engagement. By fostering creativity and dialogue, the organization helps young people challenge hate speech, counter extremism, and strengthen mutual understanding.
Addressing Mahdi Yahya directly, Karoline Linnert stated:
“Dear Mr. Yahya, you have achieved a great deal; you are distinguished by your personal courage, conviction and tenacity.”
She concluded by congratulating him on receiving the International Bremen Peace Award and recognizing his work as an inspiring example of how art and culture can become powerful tools for peacebuilding and social transformation.
The award stands as an acknowledgment not only of Mahdi Yahya’s personal dedication, but also of the collective efforts of the artists, educators, volunteers, young people, and communities who continue to build bridges of understanding through the work of Peace of Art International.
Read the Full Laudatio by Karoline Linnert →
A Special Musical Tribute
Adding a deeply emotional dimension to the evening was a special musical tribute entitled “The Search,” performed by renowned guitarist Alaa Al-Haddad in honor of Mahdi Yahya and the values represented by Peace of Art.
The performance resonated strongly with the audience, symbolizing the journey of perseverance, hope, and humanity that has characterized the organization’s work. Music, which has always been a central pillar of Peace of Art’s peacebuilding approach, once again demonstrated its ability to transcend language, culture, and borders.
A Special Recognition for Vera Mawla
During the ceremony, a touching moment of appreciation was also dedicated to Vera Mawla, President of Peace of Art International.
While Mahdi Yahya received the International Bremen Peace Award on behalf of the organization’s peacebuilding journey, Vera Mawla was presented with a flower in recognition of her continuous support, dedication, and contribution to the development and success of Peace of Art over the years.
The gesture symbolized the collective effort behind the organization’s achievements and acknowledged the many individuals who have contributed to its growth and impact.
What This Award Means
For Peace of Art International, this award represents far more than a recognition of past achievements.
It is a powerful acknowledgment of the transformative role that art, culture, and dialogue can play in promoting peace and social cohesion. It recognizes the resilience of communities affected by conflict, the creativity of young people seeking alternatives to violence, and the importance of building bridges across differences.
At the same time, the award serves as a reminder of the responsibility that comes with recognition. Peace of Art views this honor as a commitment to continue defending human dignity, supporting vulnerable communities, amplifying unheard voices, and promoting peaceful coexistence through innovative cultural and educational initiatives.
The award also highlights the growing international impact of Peace of Art International, whose activities today extend beyond Lebanon through partnerships and initiatives in Germany, the United States, and other countries.
Dialogue, Reflection, and Shared Responsibility
The ceremony also featured an open discussion moderated by journalist Thomas Joppig, who engaged Mahdi Yahya in a conversation about his personal journey, the mission of Peace of Art International, and the importance of continuing to raise awareness about the humanitarian realities faced by communities affected by war, displacement, and social challenges.
The discussion encouraged reflection on the role of civil society, culture, and grassroots initiatives in addressing global crises and promoting understanding between communities.
More than an award ceremony, the evening became a space for dialogue, solidarity, and shared responsibility.
A Celebration of Peace and Community
Following the official program, guests were invited to a reception and buffet cocktail, creating an opportunity for informal conversations, networking, and cultural exchange among attendees.
Representatives from civil society organizations, peace initiatives, cultural institutions, local authorities, and international guests gathered together to celebrate the award recipients and continue discussions initiated during the ceremony.
The reception reflected the spirit of the evening: bringing people together through dialogue, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to peace.
Gratitude and Looking Forward
Mahdi Yahya expressed his deep gratitude to the Schwelle Foundation, the award jury, the organizers, and everyone who contributed to the unforgettable evening in Bremen.
The recognition belongs not only to one individual but to the entire Peace of Art family: the artists, volunteers, educators, youth leaders, partners, and communities who have believed in the power of creativity and dialogue to create positive change.
As Peace of Art International continues its mission, the International Bremen Peace Award 2026 stands as a historic milestone and a source of inspiration for future generations working to build a more peaceful, inclusive, and humane world.
The organization extends its heartfelt thanks to all those who participated in the ceremony and shared in this remarkable moment. This recognition will remain a symbol of hope, responsibility, and the enduring belief that peace can be built through art, culture, and human connection.
