NGOs and Conflict Transformation

The concept of conflict transformation can be traced back to the writings of Lederach in the 1980s and those of Galtung in the late 1970s.The concept, however, gained much support with the evolution of conceptualization of human security by the international community. The protracted nature of conflicts arising in the world has led to the adoption of the conflict transformation approach by NGOs involved in peace building. Studies, however, indicate that NGOs, despite setting out with conflict transformation plans, end up resolving and managing conflicts; they do not transform conflicts. This has been as a result of the unclear specification of activities that the NGOs are expected to be involved in so as to transform conflicts. This study, therefore, sought to find out the activities that NGOs engage in so as to transform conflicts. The following specific issues were examined: the activities aimed at addressing access to economic resources in the community, activities undertaken to change attitudes and perceptions that enhance conflict in the community and ways in which culture has been used to address conflict. This book is beneficial for peace actors and researchers.

Autorentext

Philista Sang obtained her M.A degree in development studies in 2012 from the University of Nairobi. She has been involved in extensive field research focusing on development issues. Her interests are specifically on conflict transformation and development in fragile societies.