An introduction to Cord’s work

There is so much violence, conflict and war in our world. Societies become unstable and communities are left divided. Millions of people live in fear; trapped in poverty, with their human rights denied. It can make us feel so helpless, we just don’t know how to respond. 

But peace is possible. Everyone has the right to live in peace and live life to the full, free from fear. Could you join in and help make this vision a reality?

56 years ago, a group from St Mary’s church in Leamington Spa were so moved by seeing victims of the Vietnam War, they knew they had to do something to help. Through faith, determination and courage, together with a deep commitment to prayer, Cord was born. Decades later, Cord is working for long-term peace in some of the world’s most challenging countries. We work throughout Southeast Asia and East Africa, in all kinds of creative and practical ways. We build peace by tackling the issues that lead to violence. This helps to create safe and stable societies where people can flourish.

These are just a few examples of the work made possible by the loving kindness, donations and prayers of ordinary people and churches throughout the UK. The road to peace is long and difficult but we are committed to this journey. Will you join us?

A woman tending her crops

Protecting land and livelihoods

We support Indigenous forest communities throughout Southeast Asia who are losing their land, homes, and ability to make a living. We’re finding peaceful solutions to a complex situation by working with all those involved, including the communities, governments, and businesses.

Two people in Burundi reading a pamphlet

Hope and healing in Burundi

Burundi’s history is dominated by conflict and violence. It’s left people living in extreme poverty. Communities are deeply divided. Cord is providing practical help and psychological treatment to those who have suffered the most. We’re also helping communities to deal with their painful past. Our work helps people to share honestly, offer forgiveness, and develop a common understanding. This process allows healing to begin. 

A man wearing traditional dress

Freedom of Religion and Belief in Myanmar

Widespread persecution of minority faith groups is a fundamental problem in Myanmar’s divided society. Human rights are denied. Instability and conflict have increased since the military coup in 2021. Drawing on over a decade’s experience of working in Myanmar, we are developing trust between different faith communities and those in power. We’re helping to grow understanding and cooperation.

Please help create more stories of hope and healing by making a donation TODAY

Cord’s vision is a world where all people can live life to the full, in peace.
Peace means hope and healing for victims in safe and stable societies.
Peace means freedom, and people reaching their potential.
Help restore peace so that people can prosper.

Mrs Thu is taking on the companies causing immense damage to the environment

Cord is building peace by training Women Environmental Defenders in Southeast Asia. But what does this really mean in practice? Here’s a wonderful example of how this project works and the incredible difference your support makes! Mrs Cil Thu is 27 and lives in Cil Mup village in Dam Rong district, Lam Dong province, Vietnam. ... Read more

Shifting Power: Women, Climate & Conflict in the Mekong

In June, Cord hosted a regional webinar spotlighting the realities and reflections of women environmental defenders (WEDs) across the Mekong region. Drawing on insights from the EMPOWER project—which supported over 300 women in Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand, and Vietnam—the discussion explored how climate change, gender inequality, and conflict intersect, and what support WEDs say they need most.  ... Read more

You are invited to join us for The Cord Supporters Gathering

Please come along for a great time of fellowship, inspiration, tea and cake!  It will be wonderful to spend time together in the church where Cord began, all the way back in 1967! It’s completely free to come along but it would be helpful if you could let us know if you plan to attend ... Read more
Nestor and Etienne
Lives changed
Thanks to your loving donations, stories of healing and forgiveness continue to flow from our Dukomeze Kunywana project in Burundi. People who have suffered trauma for decades because of war and violence are finding peace. Relationships are being restored and communities are being renewed. Dukomeze Kunywana is a phrase in Kirundi, a language spoken in ...