Peace Education as a Peacemaking Tool in Conflict Zones

Abstract

This chapter examines how peace education supports the peacemaking process at various stages of conflict escalation. It highlights three theories of change that explain the transformations facilitated by peace education and describes different approaches for facilitating these transformations. The chapter also showcases the two major challenges facing peace education: the sustainability of impact and the connection between micro-level educational interventions and macro-level peacemaking processes. Drawing from studies examining peace education across various conflict contexts, I argue that the processes of peace education greatly determine how effective these programs are at improving relationships between conflicting groups before, during, or after a peace agreement. These processes include both the pedagogy and structure of these programs. Moreover, combining theories of change to build bridges between enemy groups and promote shifts in consciousness motivating youth to engage in peacebuilding activities is critical for sustaining transformations promoted by these programs and scaling up these transformations.