Since relationships are so critical to peacebuilding processes and outcomes, peacebuilding practitioners should focus on building strong relationships with local partners and stakeholders informed by genuine dialogue, cultural sensitivity, and self-reflection.
In the context of civil war in Côte d’Ivoire and Sierra Leone, the line between “armed actors” and “communities” was porous, creating a situation where peacebuilders spanning these categories in some cases had special access to armed actors for the purposes of negotiation.
On April 4, 2018, Sierra Leone democratically elected its first president following years of civil war. Peace science shows how nonviolent civil resistance during government transition is important to the health and longevity of a democracy.
Sanctions research and policy focus on states, giving little attention to challenges of targeting non-state armed actors, making sanctions less effective.
Religious actors can use their respected positions in society to assert neutrality to build personal relationships with, and influence parties in conflict.