The Dún Laoghaire Lions Club Peace Poster Contest is part of the wider international Lions Clubs International Peace Poster programme, a long-running youth initiative that encourages children to express their vision of peace through art. Organised locally by Dún Laoghaire Lions Club, the competition gives young people an opportunity to reflect on themes such as peace, kindness, understanding, and global citizenship while developing and showcasing their artistic talents. It is one of the club’s key educational and youth-focused projects.

Each year, Lions Clubs around the world invite young people aged 11 to 13 to design posters based on an annual peace theme set by Lions Clubs International. Schools and youth groups in the Dún Laoghaire area are invited to participate through local Lions outreach. Students create original artwork that reflects their interpretation of peace, unity, and hope for the future.

The contest is open to children aged 11–13 and is based on a specific international theme each year. Participants submit hand-drawn or hand-painted posters. Local winners are selected by the Dún Laoghaire Lions Club, and winning entries may progress to district, national, and international levels of judging. International winners receive recognition and prizes through Lions Clubs International.

The aims of the competition are to encourage young people to think about peace and global understanding, promote creativity and artistic expression, build awareness of social responsibility and kindness, and connect local communities to an international movement for peace.

Dún Laoghaire Lions Club promotes the contest locally by working with schools, teachers, and youth organisations. Club members help organise participation, judge entries, and celebrate the achievements of young artists. This reflects the Lions’ wider commitment to youth development, education, and community engagement.

The Peace Poster Contest gives children a voice on important global issues, builds confidence and creativity, strengthens school and community involvement, and promotes messages of tolerance, unity, and hope. For many participants, it is more than an art competition—it encourages reflection on real-life issues such as conflict, inclusion, friendship, and cooperation, aligning closely with educational values such as citizenship, empathy, and social awareness.

Local winners may receive certificates, awards, or public recognition at Dún Laoghaire Lions Club events, with selected posters progressing to higher levels of the competition.

For more than 30 years, Lions Clubs worldwide have supported this international art competition. Millions of children from nearly 100 countries have taken part, making it a truly global initiative. Dún Laoghaire Lions Club continues to encourage students in the Dún Laoghaire/Rathdown area to participate each year, with teachers playing an important role in supporting and inspiring pupils.

Overall, the Peace Poster Contest is a meaningful youth programme that combines creativity, education, and global awareness. By encouraging children to express what peace means to them, it nurtures artistic talent while promoting compassion, understanding, and hope. It remains a strong example of how Dún Laoghaire Lions Club supports young people and contributes to building a more thoughtful and peaceful community.