NYPC Commissioner Calls for Department of Peace Amid Rising Violence in New York

Sheikh Musa Drammeh, Commissioner of the New York Peacebuilding Commission, has urged state and city authorities to establish a Department of Peace, citing the failure of existing agencies to curb escalating violence across the city.

In a public statement addressed to New Yorkers, Drammeh expressed frustration over what he described as systemic shortcomings: “We’re tired of violence driven by hate, gang violence, domestic violence, abject poverty, extremist violence and societal violence in general while we’re spending billions of dollars in state and city public safety agencies.”

He highlighted the complex bureaucracy of New York’s governance structure as part of the problem. The state government operates with up to 20 executive departments, over 90 agencies, and more than 185 boards and commissions. Meanwhile, the New York City government runs over 100 agencies, including roughly 50 major departments and more than 200 boards and commissions overseen by the Mayor’s Office of Appointments.

“Do you all know what is missing among all these departments and commissions that unfortunately have failed to keep us safe in relation to the resources we are spending on them? Department Of Peace!” Drammeh declared.

He emphasized that while current departments and commissions are largely reactive, a Department of Peace would focus on prevention.

“If you are fed up with crime and violence and believe as we do that the Department of Peace is a necessity, join us in Albany to lobby for it. The proposal sits idly at the governor’s desk for years,” Drammeh added.

The call for a Department of Peace reflects growing advocacy for proactive strategies to address the root causes of violence and foster long-term community safety in New York.