Resolving conflict effectively requires activities that have a transformative effect for those fleeing violence or trying to build a life after years of violence.
These efforts must respect the wider cultural context of the conflict in question. In this way, conflict transformation is typically a long-term process. It includes changing attitudes, behaviours, relationships, systems and structures that cause violence.
Research within the field of peacebuilding explores these dynamics. It analyses the impact and efficiency of the myriad methods employed by people all over the world to improve prospects for peace. Peacebuilding includes a wide range of initiatives, from mediation, protection, reintegration, trauma healing and reconciliation, through to longer-term investments in fairer access to governance, education, health, justice, security and livelihoods.
A greater understanding and critical analysis of all of these aspects of peacebuilding, and more, is vital for furthering the knowledge and expertise of those affected by violent conflict. Research not only seeks to monitor and evaluate peacebuilding work being conducted around the world, but also provides important evidence for advocacy, shares best practice with others, and ensures local organisations are recognised as central in the fight to stop war and build peace.
