Welcome to Building Bridges for Peace
Promoting peace and conflict resolution throughout the world
Trailer of new documentary,
The Hardest Bridge
For over 25 years, Jo Berry and Pat Magee have been building an extraordinary partnership rooted in dialogue, accountability, and reconciliation. Their story—once defined by the tragic events of the 1984 Brighton bombing—has evolved into a powerful example of what is possible when individuals choose understanding over hatred. Their journey is now captured in the new documentary The Hardest Bridge, which explores the courage it takes to confront the past and work toward peace.
Today, Jo and Pat continue to speak together around the world, sharing their message that even the deepest divisions can be bridged.Their message is both urgent and hopeful: that even after the deepest harm, dialogue is possible; that understanding does not erase the past but can transform its legacy; and that peace is not an abstract idea, but something built—patiently, bravely, and together.
Ms Berry’s talk with us was really impactful as she taught us the importance of forgiveness and having a peaceful, open heart. With the ongoing tensions in the world, her story showed me that violent conflict cannot solve a situation, but having those serious and uncomfortable conversations is what lets us grow as individuals and as a society. I am eternally grateful to have had the opportunity to speak to her.
Age 17, workshop participant
Support our work. Invite Jo to speak. Book a school talk or workshop. Create space for courageous conversations.
Be part of building bridges for peace.
Founder Jo Berry and Patrick Magee – who was convicted for the Brighton bombing that killed Jo’s father – facilitate workshops around the world which enable dialogue between opposing groups and give talks on conflict resolution and alternatives to violence.
ABOUT US
Building Bridges for Peace advances conflict transformation by facilitating those involved in hostilities to break the cycle of violence and revenge by appreciating the humanity of their opponents and the power of empathy.
I passionately believe that there is humanity in everyone, and every time we demonise the “other” we are delaying the onset of peace in this
world.
It was important for me as part of the peace process in North of Ireland to recognise that now we should engage with former enemies and political opponents, addressing the needs and grievances of victims, helping to break down differences by explaining ourselves to the other.