Communication in Peacebuilding: Civil Wars, Civility and Safe Spaces

This book explores the role of communication in post-civil war peacebuilding, focusing on how societies can transition from discursive dehumanization to peaceful cooperation and how peacebuilders can utilize communication to encourage reimagining and engagement with former enemies. Understanding communicative peacebuilding is essential for achieving self-sustainable everyday peace.

Format: Hardback
Length: 267 pages
Publication date: 18 November 2021
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This comprehensive book delves into the profound impact of communication, encompassing both factual and fictional mass media, as well as the performative and visual arts, on post-civil war peacebuilding. It explores the critical question of how societies can transition from the conditions of discursive dehumanization that characterize civil wars to peaceful cooperation in post-conflict environments. Moreover, it examines the role of peacebuilders in facilitating communities' utilization of communication's transformative power to foster the reimagining of and engagement with former enemies as co-citizens.

In the pursuit of civil and peaceful cooperation, the observance of discursive civility and the establishment of safe discursive spaces become paramount. These spaces enable civil engagement between diverse groups within society, including former combatants and survivors. This book makes a compelling argument that understanding communicative peacebuilding in this holistic manner is essential to achieving self-sustainable everyday peace.

The book is organized into several chapters, each addressing different aspects of communication and peacebuilding. It begins by examining the historical context of communication and conflict, highlighting the role of media in perpetuating stereotypes and fostering divisions. It then explores the power of storytelling and narrative to promote empathy, understanding, and reconciliation.

The book also examines the role of communication in promoting social change and building resilience in post-civil war contexts. It highlights the importance of inclusive and accessible communication channels, as well as the need for media literacy and critical thinking skills to navigate the complex information landscape.

Furthermore, the book discusses the challenges and opportunities associated with communication in post-civil war peacebuilding. It explores the role of media in shaping public opinion, the potential for misinformation and propaganda, and the need for ethical and responsible reporting. It also examines the role of civil society organizations and grassroots movements in promoting communication and peacebuilding.

In conclusion, this book offers a comprehensive and insightful exploration of the role of communication in post-civil war peacebuilding. It provides valuable insights into the mechanisms through which communication can promote social change, foster empathy, and build bridges between former adversaries. By understanding communicative peacebuilding in this holistic manner, we can contribute to the achievement of long-term peace and stability in conflict-ridden societies.

Weight: 520g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030861896
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022