The Peace Economy Project (PEP), founded in 1977, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting economic justice and advocating for a shift from military spending to funding social and environmental needs. Based in St. Louis, PEP focuses on researching the economic impacts of local and national military expenditures, advocating for policy changes, and educating the public about the benefits of a peace economy.
PEP operates on the principle that reducing military budgets could significantly increase funding for vital public services such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure, thereby enhancing community well-being and security. Through public education campaigns, legislative advocacy, and community engagement, PEP strives to raise awareness of the trade-offs involved in military spending and to foster a more just and sustainable economic system.
The organization’s initiatives include hosting educational webinars and public discussions, publishing detailed reports and policy briefs, and participating in coalitions to push for federal and local policy reform. PEP also conducts case studies and presents data-driven research to policymakers, stakeholders, and the general public to underline the potential for large-scale shifts in public spending priorities.
By focusing on these areas, PEP aims to inspire and mobilize community action for reducing military expenditures, advocating for transparency in government spending, and promoting an economy that serves the interests of peace and broad-based prosperity rather than military engagement.