What is War Against War?

Introduction In political philosophy and international relations especially in peace and conflict studies the concept of a war against war also known as war on war refers to the reification of armed conflicts. Origin If a work of Edmond Potonié-Pierre from 1877 already discusses the idea of reifying conflicts under the title “la guerre à… Read More

What is Territorial Peace Theory?

Introduction The territorial peace theory finds that the stability of a country’s borders has a large influence on the political climate of the country. Peace and stable borders foster a democratic and tolerant climate, while territorial conflicts with neighbour countries have far-reaching consequences for both individual-level attitudes, government policies, conflict escalation, arms races, and war.… Read More

What are Peace and Conflict Studies?

Introduction Peace and conflict studies is a social science field that identifies and analyses violent and nonviolent behaviours as well as the structural mechanisms attending conflicts (including social conflicts), with a view towards understanding those processes which lead to a more desirable human condition. A variation on this, peace studies (irenology), is an interdisciplinary effort… Read More

What is Environmental Peacebuilding?

Introduction Environmental peacebuilding (frequently also termed environmental peacemaking) examines and advocates environmental protection and cooperation as a factor in creating more peaceful relations. Peacebuilding is both the theory and practice of identifying the conditions that can lead to a sustainable peace between past, current or potential future adversaries. At the most basic level, warfare devastates… Read More

What is Peacebuilding?

Introduction Peacebuilding is an activity that aims to resolve injustice in nonviolent ways and to transform the cultural and structural conditions that generate deadly or destructive conflict. It revolves around developing constructive personal, group, and political relationships across ethnic, religious, class, national, and racial boundaries. The process includes violence prevention; conflict management, resolution, or transformation;… Read More

What were the Dignity Battalions (1988-1990)?

Introduction Dignity Battalions (Spanish: Batallones de la Dignidad) were paramilitary militia units created by Panama’s de facto ruler Manuel Noriega in April 1988 to augment the Panama Defence Forces in defending Panama against possible invasion by the United States and to suppress domestic political opposition to Noriega’s regime. They were dissolved on 10 February 1990,… Read More