Evolution of Peace and Conflict Studies
Oliver Richmond outlines the evolution of peace and conflict studies as moving through four key phases, reflecting shifts in how peace is understood and pursued, from basic conflict management to complex, inclusive peacebuilding approaches.
1. Conflict Management
- Realist view: conflict is inevitable.
- Goal = manage violence, maintain order (negative peace).
Example
- Cold War: Arms control agreements (e.g. SALT Treaties) managed tensions without resolving ideological conflict.
2. Conflict Resolution
- Liberal view: resolve root causes via negotiation.
- Institutions help meet basic human needs.
Example
- Good Friday Agreement (1998): Resolved political conflict in Northern Ireland with institutional power-sharing.
3. Peacebuilding Institutions
- Focus on diplomacy, aid, and addressing HR violations (e.g. genocide).
- Supports institutional reforms (e.g. justice systems, governance structures) to ensure peace is sustainable and rights are protected long-term.
Example
- UN Peacekeeping in South Sudan: Combines military presence with humanitarian support.
4. Multifaceted Approaches
- Uses arts, storytelling, environmental action, and inclusion of marginalized groups (e.g. LGBTQ+, youth, women, Indigenous).
- Focuses on long-term cultural and structural change, not just ending violence, builds peace by addressing root causes like inequality, trauma, and social exclusion.
Example
- Truth and Reconciliation Commission (South Africa): Combined legal and storytelling approaches post-apartheid.
Self review
- How has the focus of peace and conflict studies evolved from managing conflict to more holistic, multifaceted approaches?
- What are the strengths and limitations of using institutional versus creative/grassroots approaches to peacebuilding?
- In what ways do cultural, political, and historical contexts shape different phases of peacebuilding efforts?
