From Pacification to Peacebuilding

Does conflict transformation work? Or is the total rejection of global militarism the only route to peace? Reviewing developments in the field of conflict transformation, Diana Francis acknowledges the work help it has afforded those engulfed in violent conflict to respond constructively. However, she argues that the dominant culture of power, resting on coercion and violence, must be displaced by the principles of interdependence, kindness and nonviolent solidarity. This is the only way that pacification - efforts to dominate and control - will be replaced by genuine peacebuilding. Calling upon peacemakers worldwide to embrace and develop the practice of nonviolent power, she rejects the culture and institutions of war and working with movements around the world for global demilitarisation and 'positive peace'.