The Knotted Gun was originally crafted by Swedish artist Carl Fredrik Reuterswärd in 1980 as a tribute to his friend, John Lennon.
The global symbol of Non-Violence was initially exhibited in the Strawberry Fields memorial in Central Park, New York, and then later, a bronze edition was donated to the United Nations Headquarters in 1988.
Identical sculptures are featured in more than 30 significant places worldwide today, i.e., Lausanne, Cape Town, Belfast, Beijing, Beirut, and beyond.
The iconic sculpture has also been used to mark historical occasions, from the fall of the Berlin Wall to Global Peace Day in Trafalgar Square and Miami.
Today, the symbol captures the attention of more than 100 million people globally every year through our educational outreach and the placement of our sculptures, promoting peace and inspiring action.
Since 1993, The Non-Violence Project has addressed violence through productive conversations, impactful partnerships, educational programs, positive messaging, and more.
Our mission is to inspire and educate people to resolve conflicts peacefully. We aim to shift mindsets and promote harmony in people’s everyday lives, families, schools, and communities.
Our focus is on education and awareness, addressing the root causes of violence and teaching practical non-violence skills. This approach fosters empathy, confidence, and informed decision-making, contributing to a peaceful and sustainable society.
Founded in 1993, The Non-Violence Project Foundation is dedicated to promoting non-violence worldwide through education and awareness. Headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, we operate globally to inspire, motivate, and engage young people in understanding how to resolve conflicts peacefully. Through innovative tools and programs, we empower people of all ages to understand and practice non-violence, creating positive change in communities and beyond.
Meet the dedicated individuals leading our mission toward a non-violent world. Each member brings unique expertise, passion, and a shared commitment to peace.
The Non-Violence Social Enterprise is a vital partner of the Foundation, supporting its mission to spread awareness and foster peace through education. We offer a diverse range of Knotted Gun art pieces and products, along with opportunities for co-branded collaborations with like-minded corporations. These partnerships amplify our reach and ensure that proceeds from our collections directly support the Foundation’s educational and awareness-raising programs, driving positive change worldwide.
With over 30 years of educational expertise and having empowered more than 10 million individuals since 1993, the Non-Violence Project has earned numerous national and international awards, recognized as a global leader in conflict resolution education.
Additionally, we hold Consultative Status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), the highest distinction awarded to non-governmental organizations, enabling us to actively participate in shaping international discussions and initiatives aimed at fostering peace and non-violence worldwide.
We believe in the power of action. Our initiatives span across music, art, sports, events, and campaigns, all designed to highlight the transformative benefits of non-violence. Over the years, we’ve launched numerous projects that inspire positive change and encourage individuals from all walks of life to join us in creating a more peaceful world.
Experience peace through art. Our Ambassadors for Peace have reimagined the Knotted Gun, with each creation serving as a silent messenger for a violence-free world. Explore their unique interpretations and join us in promoting peace through artistic expression.
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The Non-Violence Project Foundation is a non-profit organization with special consultative status to the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC).
