Conflict Transformation vs. Conflict Resolution - What's the Difference?

Summary

This video explains the difference between conflict resolution and conflict transformation. While conflict resolution focuses on resolving immediate issues between conflicting parties, conflict transformation goes deeper, addressing the root causes and structural dynamics that perpetuate conflict. Drawing on the work of John Paul Lederach, it emphasizes that true peace is not just the absence of violence (negative peace), but a peace rooted in justice. Conflict, when understood as an opportunity for change, can lead to more sustainable solutions and lasting peace by transforming relationships and structures.

Takeaways

• 😀 Conflict resolution focuses on addressing a specific issue between conflicting parties.
• 😀 Conflict transformation, on the other hand, aims to address both the immediate issue and the underlying relationship dynamics between the parties involved.
• 😀 In conflict transformation, it’s not just about solving a specific problem, but about examining deeper issues like structural problems and power imbalances.
• 😀 An example of conflict transformation can be seen in the ongoing cycles of conflict in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, where violence continues despite agreements to resolve specific issues.
• 😀 Conflict transformation seeks to go beyond negative peace (just stopping the fight) and aims for a peace based on justice and addressing root causes.
• 😀 The concept of 'negative peace' refers to a situation where conflicts are resolved on the surface but underlying issues like inequality remain unaddressed.
• 😀 John Paul Lederach, a key figure in conflict transformation theory, emphasized that peacebuilding requires addressing deeper issues that lead people into conflict, not just ending the violence.
• 😀 Conflict itself isn’t inherently bad; it can be an opportunity to explore and address the deeper causes of tension between parties.
• 😀 To achieve lasting peace, conflict transformation requires long-term efforts to build understanding, justice, and reconciliation between parties.
• 😀 The key takeaways are: 1) Conflict should be viewed holistically, considering both the immediate issue and underlying causes; 2) Conflict can be an opportunity for positive change and long-lasting peace.

Q & A

What is the difference between conflict resolution and conflict transformation?

Conflict resolution focuses on addressing specific issues between conflicting parties, aiming to resolve the immediate problem. Conflict transformation, on the other hand, looks deeper at the structural causes of the conflict and seeks to rebuild relationships for lasting peace.

What happens after a conflict is resolved in conflict resolution?

Even if the issue is resolved, the fighting may continue if the underlying causes of the conflict are not addressed. This is where conflict transformation comes in, aiming to address deeper, systemic problems.

Why is conflict transformation more comprehensive than conflict resolution?

Conflict transformation goes beyond just resolving a specific issue. It looks at the root causes of conflict, such as inequality, poverty, and political exclusion, which often persist even after a specific issue is settled.

Can conflict resolution alone lead to lasting peace?

No, conflict resolution can stop immediate violence or resolve specific issues, but it does not necessarily address the deeper causes that perpetuate ongoing conflict. Lasting peace requires addressing these structural issues.

What is the concept of negative peace?

Negative peace refers to the absence of violence or fighting but without addressing the underlying causes of conflict. It’s a temporary and superficial solution that doesn’t lead to real, lasting peace.

What is positive peace?

Positive peace involves creating lasting peace that is rooted in justice. It’s not just about stopping violence; it’s about addressing the underlying causes of conflict and rebuilding relationships for a more sustainable peace.

Who is John Paul Lederach, and why is he significant in the context of conflict transformation?

John Paul Lederach is a peacebuilding expert who first articulated the idea of conflict transformation. His work in Latin America focused on not just resolving conflicts but addressing their root causes and building relationships to create lasting peace.

Why do conflicts like those in the DRC keep recurring even after resolutions?

Conflicts in places like the DRC often persist because, while specific issues may be resolved, deeper structural problems like poverty, political exclusion, and inequality remain unaddressed, leading to recurring violence.

How can conflict be seen as an opportunity?

Conflict can be an opportunity to identify and address deeper societal issues. By looking beyond the immediate conflict, we can uncover the root causes and work toward transforming relationships and systems for a more just and lasting peace.

What are the key takeaways from the video on conflict resolution vs. conflict transformation?

The two main takeaways are: First, we need to look at conflict not just from the perspective of the immediate issue but also consider the deeper, underlying causes. Second, conflict should be seen as an opportunity to address these deeper dynamics and work towards lasting peace.