ASHINGTON—On Monday, May 17, 2004, Senators Daniel Inouye (D-HI), John Warner (R-VA), and Tom Harkin (D-IA) introduced S. Con Res. 109, a resolution honoring the United States Institute of Peace on the 20th anniversary of its establishment.

The resolution recognizes "the importance of the founding of the United States Institute of Peace as a national and international resource for peaceful conflict management," and acknowledges the Institute's contribution to "the advancement of peace and conflict resolution education." It underscores the role of the Institute as a "source of innovative ideas and practical policy analysis on peacemaking in zones of conflict around the world, thereby enhancing United States foreign policy."

Commenting on the resolution’s introduction, Institute President Richard Solomon said, "In honoring the Institute, the U.S. Congress pays tribute to our Congressional founders and to the many talented men and women who have been and continue to be part of the Institute’s efforts to prevent, manage and resolve international conflict."

The resolution acknowledges the educational work of the Institute both in developing curricula in conflict zones and in attracting new generations of U.S. high school students to the international affairs field. It also points to the importance of the Institute's work in training thousands of government officials, military and law enforcement personnel, and humanitarian workers in the conflict resolution skills critical to peacemaking. The Institute is also acknowledged for its research, grant-making, public education, and unique focus on rule of law and religious dialogue. In addition, the resolution highlights the Institute’s applied work in zones of conflict around the world—the Balkans, the Middle East, Africa, Asia, Afghanistan, and Iraq—where it is currently very active in post-conflict stabilization and peacebuilding efforts.