Security and reconciliation: Introducing soft security 2.0 to reconciliation dynamics

Rooted in adopting a systemic view on conflict dynamics, this chapter introduces the concept of Soft Security 2.0. Same as Web 2.0 encourages individuals to participate and generate content, and developed mechanisms aiming to reduce levels of violence within virtual communities, Soft Security 2.0 encourages individuals in conflict zones to take an active role in changing their reality through participation in activities, initiatives, and projects on the ground that support the establishment of safe and secure living conditions. In the center of Soft Security 2.0 stands the public, and the ones who lead efforts are security officers and military officials. In order to achieve its goals, the concept of Soft Security 2.0 operates in three parallel tracks that support and amplify each other: (a) security figures as senior negotiators; (b) security figures as facilitators, and (c) security oriented networks and structures. Finally, this chapter lists potential activities in each one of these tracks, and indicates the importance of future research on the role of social networks in pursuing peace.