The War Childhood Museum (WCM) participated in the seventh edition of the “Foutez-nous la Paix!” (“Leave Us in Peace!”) festival in France, where we presented our work and conducted peace education workshops with children. Held from October 10 to 25, 2026, in Saint-Junien and surrounding communities, this year’s festival places a special emphasis on childhood.
Peace Education Workshops with French Children
As part of the festival, the Museum conducted educational workshops with 70 children at a local primary school, introducing them to children’s rights and encouraging them to reflect on the experiences of children affected by war.
Drawing on stories and objects from the Museum’s collection, the workshops used interactive activities and discussions to help students explore the importance of empathy, solidarity, and respect for children’s rights. Through these materials, students engaged with the personal experiences of children who grew up during war and reflected on their own understanding of peace.
Presenting the Museum to the Local Community
In addition to the workshops, the Museum presented its work at the municipal office and held a public presentation at the primary school in Saint-Victurnien, attended by local residents and community representatives. Saint-Victurnien Mayor Guillaume Sarre also visited the workshops with children, where he had the opportunity to learn more about the Museum’s approach to peace education and its work with young people.
Festival director Daniel Matias emphasized the importance of understanding and preserving children’s experiences of war.
“Across the world, millions of children are deprived of their childhood every year. Organizations such as the War Childhood Museum preserve their stories and memories, offering insight into what is lost when children are forced to grow up amid war and violence,” he said.
The visit was organized with the support of the University of Limoges and EU PEACE, strengthening international cooperation around peace education and remembrance.
About the Festival
Organized by the Foutez-nous la Paix! Association, the festival is an annual initiative dedicated to promoting peace, human rights, and nonviolence. Its seventh edition brings together cultural events, film screenings, exhibitions, debates, concerts, and educational workshops across several communities in France.
