Peacebuilding and Conflict Transformation Terminology

A doctrine and historical school of thought that rejects war as the means of resolving conflict. A philosophy based on an absolute refusal to engage in violence because it is morally wrong.

A model or pattern that cannot be proved in a scientific sense, but which may reflect shifts in thinking.

Parties to a conflict are the groups or individuals involved in a conflict. There are primary parties (those who are directly involved in the conflict) and secondary parties (those who are indirectly involved in the conflict or have a stake in the outcome of the conflict). 

For example: a primary party to the conflict would include the various groups fighting over power or resources, while secondary parties might include those benefiting from war (e.g., those plundering resources or shipping arms into a country) or individuals or groups supporting the primary parties in some way (e.g., with money or soldiers). 

An individual or group with sufficient interests at stake to get involved in a process of solution seeking to their problem. Also called a stakeholder.

Challenging an injustice by refusing to support or cooperate with an unjust law, action or policy. The term “passive” is misleading because passive resistance includes pro-active nonviolence, such as marches, boycotts and other forms of active protest.

The absence of physical violence or other methods that can produce direct or indirect harm like structural or cultural violence. 

The establishment of relationships that is sufficiently strong to withstand threats to stability.

The benefit a country receives from cutting back military spending, especially after the end of a war. The “dividend” comes when the money is redirected to social programs or to tax reductions.

Operations undertaken to end military or violent exchanges or acts of aggression, with or without the consent of one or more parties to the conflict, to create a permanent and viable environment and guarantees for such conditions.

Structures or processes in place for dealing with unrest or violence, and sustaining peace may include traditional courts, inter-village meetings, a process where elders meet, etc. 

Peacebuilding represents a way to achieve societal reconciliation. It is important to note that peacebuilding is a very widely used term, one that differs according to who uses the term and in what context it is used. As used in this context, it is a people-centered, relationship-building, and participatory process.