The updated mission statement recognizes that issues previously considered as separate and discrete, in fact are intertwined and increase risk to peace and sustainability in the world, paralleling the convergence of systems that characterizes globalization.
PEP believes that a rapid and peaceful transition is required from an unsustainable civilization steeped in institutionalized violence, exploitation, and profligate consumption by some peoples, to a commonwealth based on universal harmony, mutual respect, and a love of the Earth and all its beings.
Nominees are distinguished by having made, over a period of years, a significant contribution to the promotion of an enduring international peace founded on social justice, self-determination, diversity, compassion, and environmental harmony, achieved through cooperative and nonviolent means in the spirit of Gandhi.
On March 13, 1959, PEP founder Jerome Davis formally proposed that a yearly award be given "for contributions made in the promotion of international peace and good will."
[4] PEP co-sponsors numerous events conducted by other peace, environmental, and social justice organizations, such as the conference on human rights held at Quinnipiac University in 2008.
In 2003 PEP coordinated with other Connecticut peace groups to provide trains conveying thousands of people to demonstrations in New York City opposing the George W. Bush Administration plan to invade Iraq.
PEP is developing a long-term "think tank" activity intended to create cogent source documents encouraging the productive interaction and mutual support of the peace, environmental, and social justice movements.
In its early years PEP was led by Davis and Dr. Roland Bainton, both Yale professors (Religion and Divinity School, respectively), and its executive directors were retired Christian ministers.
[6] This attempt was blocked by the Office of the Attorney General of Connecticut and a court order providing for the continuance of PEP and the establishment of the Peace and Social Justice Fund at the Community Foundation for Greater New Haven.