Abstract
This chapter maintains a skepticism about peacebuilding. It contrasts the hopes of peacebuilding initiatives and literature with observed evidence of continuing conflict and hostility. The chapter is skeptical of attempts from social-psychology, especially those informed by contact theory, to reconcile people from different identity groups. Despite many peacebuilding initiatives and programs, the chapter does not find measurable evidence that they actually produce pro-peace outcomes. Micro-level peacebuilding initiatives are unable to change macro-level issues and are beholden to issues of power and (in)security. The chapter is in favor of more modest goals, such as conflict management, that recognize division and seek to be realistic.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Title of host publication | Routledge Handbook of Peacebuilding, Second Edition |
| Publisher | Taylor and Francis |
| Pages | 103-114 |
| Number of pages | 12 |
| ISBN (Electronic) | 9781040104408 |
| ISBN (Print) | 9781032275772 |
| DOIs | |
| State | Published - 1 Jan 2024 |
Bibliographical note
Publisher Copyright:© 2022 selection and editorial matter, Roger Mac Ginty; individual chapters, the contributors.