Over Zero was founded in response to the global need to counteract and prevent identity-based violence and other forms of group-targeted harm. We emerged as an outgrowth of Sisi ni Amani International, an organization founded to strengthen local violence prevention efforts through leveraging communication-based tools. Our interdisciplinary and cross-sector approach contributes to the broader field of identity-based violence prevention. Over Zero’s programming is focused on the United States, Central Europe, and engagement with the wider atrocity prevention field. Our work is rooted in a commitment to field-building: developing the connective tissue, trust, and shared understanding across actors, approaches, disciplines, and geographies that are facing common issues or challenges. Our model supports and convenes diverse stakeholders, from local NGOs to community leaders and organizers from directly affected communities, researchers, and philanthropy; draws on their perspectives and knowledge; supports them in leveraging their unique platforms and skills; and engages them in collective problem-solving and strategy design. We also support high-impact organizations and networks in programmatic design and evaluation, and advise leaders and institutions that influence the field, including philanthropy. Underlying this work is a commitment to cutting-edge, interdisciplinary and cross-sector research that is both responsive to real-world needs and can enhance practical responses to conflict risks.
