Creating the conditions for peacemaking: theories of practice in ethnic conflict resolution

Authors
Citation
Mh. Ross, Creating the conditions for peacemaking: theories of practice in ethnic conflict resolution, ETHN RACIAL, 23(6), 2000, pp. 1002-1034
Citations number
80
Categorie Soggetti
Sociology & Antropology
Journal title
ETHNIC AND RACIAL STUDIES
ISSN journal
01419870 → ACNP
Volume
23
Issue
6
Year of publication
2000
Pages
1002 - 1034
Database
ISI
SICI code
0141-9870(200011)23:6<1002:CTCFPT>2.0.ZU;2-U
Abstract
Establishing the conditions for effective intergroup peacemaking is a formi dable task in severe ethnic conflicts. Conflict resolution practitioners ar gue that a critical first step is developing preconditions which convince c ompeting groups that there are opponents to whom it is worth talking, that it is possible to create structural changes conducive to a stable peace, an d that an agreement is possible which can meet each side's basic concerns a nd needs. This article compares six theories of practice of ethnic conflict resolution: community relations, principled negotiation; human needs; psyc hoanalytically rooted identity; intercultural miscommunications and conflic t transformation, examining how each understands ethnic conflict; the goals it articulates; the effects of good practice on participants in interventi ons; the mechanisms by which the project achieves its impact; and the dynam ics of transfer affecting the course of a wider conflict. It is argued that clearer articulation of these assumptions will improve both theory and pra ctice in the search for settlements to severe ethnic conflict.