The Transformation of Violent Intercommunal Conflict

Over the past decade there has been a remarkable growth of interest in the concept of conflict transformation and the closely related strategy of grass-roots peacebuilding. Yet there is no consensus on what 'transformation' really means. No general critical analysis of the concept of conflict transformation in the context of violent intercommunal conflict, and the different approaches that can be included in response to this category of dispute, yet exists. This study offers a comprehensive survey and critical overview of this emerging area of study. The book will: - examine reasons for the growing interest in the concept of conflict transformation in situations of ethnic conflict - explore the different dimensions of transformation: individual actors, political and economic structures, and group identity - identify and assess key issues and problems that have emerged - propose a stronger emphasis on the promotion of inter-subjective understanding Drawing on examples of strategies from a number of situations of 'ethnic conflict' including N. Ireland, Israel/Palestine, Bosnia, Kosovo, Cyprus, Spain, Sri Lanka and the former Soviet Union, this book is aimed at third level undergraduates, postgraduates and scholars of peace and conflict research, ethnic conflict, international relations (including specialists on international organizations and humanitarian intervention), and public policy.

Stephen Ryan is a Senior Lecturer in Peace and Conflict Studies at the University of Ulster, Northern Ireland.