This paper is set out to give a possible account of why so many peace processes concerning intra-state ethnic conflicts have produced „no war, no peace“ situations, hence states of negative peace where risks for resumed fightings are high, rather than an actual resolution fostering mutual understanding and recognition involving society at large.
The first section of this assignment is designed to point out the necessity to resolve conflicts by peaceful means as well as of conflict transformation and, thereby, deals with the wide-spread assumption first introduced by Zartman that conflicts require a “ripe moment” as the ideal entry point for eg. mediators to reach a peace agreement among the belligerents which I have argued only leads to a peace settlement and thus, more often to a flawed peace than to the conflict's resolution.
John Paul Lederach's approach of cultivating peace and Ramsbotham's ideas of conflict transformation both stressing the cruciality of a long-term approach to peace processes have underlined my argumentation. The second part then explores the fundamentals of the social psychological aspects of ethnic conflicts reflected upon so well by Herbert Kelman who builds upon Burton's research concerning the dimension of deep rooted conflicts - as ethical conflicts usually can be described! - emphasising human needs and fears over interests, since they can be seen as the root cause for the inadequacy of Zartman's theory of the “ripe moment”.
Moreover, the concept of work-shops designed by Kelman as a feature of track II diplomacy in conflict resolution shall serve as a successful example for an alternative in a long-term approach to peace processes. Altogether, it is to notice that the paper is based on the constructivist assumption of the ethnic concept in contrast to the primordialist thought. Furthermore, Zartman's “ripe moment”, should not in anyway be discredited in its contribution to conflict resolution as it can serve as a valuable turning point.
However, it should not be seen as the solution but rather as an initial/accompanying step in a long-term process that is essential for a sustainable peace. Finally, when taking these considerations in mind the core element needed in addition for a successful peace process is political and societal will in order to really overcome “no war, no peace” situations on the long-term!
Inhaltsverzeichnis (Table of Contents)
- Introduction
- On the Importance of a long-term Approach to Peace Processes
- On the Inadequacies of Zartman's „Ripe Moment“
- The Social Psychological Dimensions of Ethnic Conflicts
- Conclusion
Zielsetzung und Themenschwerpunkte (Objectives and Key Themes)
This paper examines the reasons behind the prevalence of "no war, no peace" situations in intra-state ethnic conflicts. It argues that relying solely on Zartman's "ripe moment" theory for conflict resolution often leads to flawed peace agreements. The paper emphasizes the importance of a long-term approach to peace processes and advocates for conflict transformation, which fosters mutual understanding and societal integration.
- The limitations of Zartman's "ripe moment" theory in achieving sustainable peace.
- The need for conflict transformation and a long-term approach to peace processes.
- The role of social psychology in understanding ethnic conflicts.
- The importance of fostering mutual understanding and recognition in achieving lasting peace.
- The need for political and societal will for successful conflict resolution.
Zusammenfassung der Kapitel (Chapter Summaries)
- Introduction: This chapter introduces the paper's objective to analyze the prevalence of "no war, no peace" situations in intra-state ethnic conflicts and argues for the necessity of a long-term approach to peace processes beyond solely relying on Zartman's "ripe moment" theory.
- On the Importance of a Long-Term Approach to Peace Processes: This chapter discusses the shortcomings of relying solely on the "ripe moment" theory for conflict resolution. It highlights the need for a comprehensive approach to peace processes that emphasizes conflict transformation, fostering mutual understanding, and integrating society.
- On the Inadequacies of Zartman's „Ripe Moment“: This chapter critically examines Zartman's theory of the "ripe moment," arguing that its focus on a single moment of opportunity often leads to flawed peace agreements. It emphasizes the need for a more nuanced approach to peace processes.
Schlüsselwörter (Keywords)
Intra-state ethnic conflicts, peace processes, conflict resolution, conflict transformation, "ripe moment" theory, social psychology, ethnic conflicts, mutual understanding, societal integration, sustainable peace, political will, "no war, no peace."
- Quote paper
- Anna Scheithauer (Author), 2011, On the Importance of a Long-term Approach to Peace Processes, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/350704
