Institutional Affiliation
Saint Paul University
Start Date
2-11-2023 10:45 AM
End Date
2-11-2023 12:15 PM
Proposal Type
Presentation
Proposal Format
On-campus
Proposal Description
The paper discusses alternative conflict resolution mechanisms that researchers, conflict management practitioners and policy makers could consider. In countries such as the Democratic Republic of the Congo, political agreements reached in recent years to the sound of drums have continued to show their limits (Autesserre, 2006; Kibisswa, 2015). In addition to the ongoing wars, tensions remain high between some ethnic communities. How can these traditional peace agreements be strengthened, and sustainable peace fostered for the benefit of society as a whole? The research draws on the richness of social and cultural practices within Congolese communities and suggests original models of conflict resolution. From the Tshãla divination among the Luba of Kasai to everyday social exchanges, Congolese tribes are full of traditional resources to spare. In addition, the attachment of many Congolese to religion should encourage to reflect on the contribution of religion to peacebuilding. Religion, taken in the sense of Godfried Danneels (2003) and its fundamental principles of truth, justice, love, and freedom. Finally, the study highlights the need for societies that have experienced war and suffering, such as the DRC, to develop a habit of remembrance. Making peace through memory is another alternative way of reconciling the society.
Key words: peace agreements - alternative mechanisms - traditions - beliefs - memory
Exploring Alternative Approaches to Peace: Traditions, Beliefs and Memories in the Democratic Republic of Congo
The paper discusses alternative conflict resolution mechanisms that researchers, conflict management practitioners and policy makers could consider. In countries such as the Democratic Republic of the Congo, political agreements reached in recent years to the sound of drums have continued to show their limits (Autesserre, 2006; Kibisswa, 2015). In addition to the ongoing wars, tensions remain high between some ethnic communities. How can these traditional peace agreements be strengthened, and sustainable peace fostered for the benefit of society as a whole? The research draws on the richness of social and cultural practices within Congolese communities and suggests original models of conflict resolution. From the Tshãla divination among the Luba of Kasai to everyday social exchanges, Congolese tribes are full of traditional resources to spare. In addition, the attachment of many Congolese to religion should encourage to reflect on the contribution of religion to peacebuilding. Religion, taken in the sense of Godfried Danneels (2003) and its fundamental principles of truth, justice, love, and freedom. Finally, the study highlights the need for societies that have experienced war and suffering, such as the DRC, to develop a habit of remembrance. Making peace through memory is another alternative way of reconciling the society.
Key words: peace agreements - alternative mechanisms - traditions - beliefs - memory