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'We need a peace process.' (2)

Updated: Jul 30, 2024

Weed growing through a crack in concrete

Where is the ‘ordinary person’ in the peace process? And what can they do?


Well, it depends on what you mean by a peace process.


Narrowly, the term refers to the negotiations held by leaders to bring about the end of a violent conflict. And while the ‘ordinary person’ might be deeply affected by the conflict, in this sort of peace process they’re basically a spectator, who might be consulted in some way before and/or during negotiations; and/or after their conclusion to ratify any agreement. 


More broadly, a well-designed peace process will also plan for the crucial implementation period after an agreement is confirmed, which is when the ‘ordinary person’ has the best chance to help bring about positive change. And a number of states that have emerged from violent conflict in recent years have put in place specialist government bodies devoted to supporting citizens in their reconciliation and peacebuilding efforts.


For the 'ordinary person' living under repression, however, the idea of a peace process might have an entirely different meaning. Here, it might refer to the struggle for basic human rights and the end of state violence against them – if the term is used at all.


A broader definition


But for those of us who are fortunate enough to live in states that do abide by the concept of human rights – even if imperfectly – I want to suggest that we broaden, democratise and popularise the concept of a peace process.


That we apply the term not just to actions to bring about the end of violent conflict, but to include all efforts to bridge divides between us, manage conflict positively and reduce violence.


That means within personal relationships, within families, within communities, within and between organisations, within societies – at home and abroad – and between nations. 


I suggest that the term also includes efforts to halt species loss and destruction of the natural world, and to address the climate crisis. 


Security experts are especially worried about the latter. They predict that droughts, floods, severe storms, wildfires and rising sea levels will increasingly destabilise the world through mass migration, food shortages and economic shocks. And that all of this will drive conflict within and between countries. 


A personal peace process


Now, some might say that using ‘peace process’ in this personal, individual way is too broad, too inclusive. But to my mind that’s precisely the point. 


Ordinary people – all of us – have a direct stake in peace, wherever we are, right now. And I believe we can become more empowered to take action when we reframe our perception of what a peace process is.


Suppose a couple falls out over a climate-related issue – eating meat, say, or flying – and they eventually split up. ‘She became an eco-fanatic!’ he complains. ‘He didn’t care about killing the planet!’ she cries.


Will they see that rift as a ‘conflict driven by the climate crisis’? I doubt it.


But viewed through the peace process lens, transforming their conflict would both benefit the couple and contribute to a larger process of understanding and reconciliation over a highly contentious issue.


If even one of them were able to reframe their personal conflict in terms of the bigger picture, and address it using skills and approaches currently locked away in specialist silos – conflict management, peacebuilding, dialogue – how different might the outcome be? How much more positive?


In short, engaging in a personal, everyday peace process not only lessens the chance for differences to escalate into conflicts and crises; it also adds to the general good. ‘If they can do it, why not us?’


Human networks 


At the heart of the approach I’m advocating is the understanding that we’re each the centre of our own unique human network. Which means that each of us is potentially an active agent for change within that network.


When we change, our relationship to every other person in our network also changes, even if only slightly – because that’s the nature of relationship. 


So what exactly can an ordinary person do in the peace process?


Well, how about starting one – by starting to transform your own, unique human network? Bridge divides, improve relationships, deepen connections.


Or you could join in someone else’s peace process – locally, nationally, internationally – on an issue you care about. Because there are millions of people around the world already engaged.


Or both. Or more. The choice is yours. The limits are what you set yourself. As Teddy Roosevelt famously said, ‘Do what you can, with what you have, where you are.’ 


So what do you have, where you are – and what can you do with it?


I’ll explore this in my next blog.


Meanwhile, what do you think? Please feel free to leave a comment below.

4 Comments


Unknown member
Jul 31, 2024

Taking sides in the Middle East is filled with controversy.   If one takes one side, the other side will say you are wrong.   My attitude is Israel deserves a land of their own.  But the Palestinians don't like what Israel is doing.  Hamas will do anything to prevent Israel's legitimacy.  They invaded Israel to disrupt any Saudi Arabia/ Israel agreement.

My first thought is to get someone to ask all the Arab/Muslim nations what they want.  What would they prefer to do with Gaza?  If they don't like Israel, then they should be asked, how should Gaza be governed?   Rationally, it doesn't look like Hamas can do the job.  Isn't Hamas small potatoes compared to all Muslim nations?   Therefore let…

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Unknown member
Aug 01, 2024
Replying to

So – in response to this blog, Robert, and given the leadership that currently exists in the ME – what is it that you think you can do, with what you have, where you are to advance/support/start a peace process?

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Unknown member
Jul 29, 2024

Thanks for sharing your thought proving words.

They reinforce the importance of doing what we can do to create peace in our own lives and reframing our understanding of the true purpose of conflict. Not to beat an opponent but to create bridges of understanding.

This has been of benefit to me and others in my life. Something to celebrate, for sure. 😀

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Guest
Jul 29, 2024

👏

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