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
This paper examines alternative dispute resolution mechanisms that stakeholders could address. In countries such as the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the political agreements reached in recent years with drums beating have not ceased to show their limits (Autesserre, 2006; Kibisswa, 2015). In addition to the wars that have continued between the different actors, tensions remain persistent between some communities. How can these traditional peace agreements be strengthened and foster lasting peace 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 “Kinzonzi" wisdom among the Kongo to the "Tshala" facilitation among the Luba, the Congolese tribes are full of traditional resources to spare (Muan'Ambuta Ndongalasïa, 2008). Moreover, the attachment of many Congolese to religious beliefs encourages the reflection on the contribution of religion to peacebuilding. Religion, taken here in the sense of Godfried Danneels (2003) and its fundamental principles which are truth, justice, love, freedom. Finally, the proposal stresses the need for societies that have experienced war and pain, such as the DRC, to adopt a habit of remembrance. Making peace through remembrance is another alternative way to reconcile the country.
Key words: Classical peace agreements - alternative mechanisms - traditions - beliefs - memory - reconciliation
Included in
Exploring Alternative Approaches to Peace: Traditions, Beliefs and Memories in the Democratic Republic of Congo
This paper examines alternative dispute resolution mechanisms that stakeholders could address. In countries such as the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the political agreements reached in recent years with drums beating have not ceased to show their limits (Autesserre, 2006; Kibisswa, 2015). In addition to the wars that have continued between the different actors, tensions remain persistent between some communities. How can these traditional peace agreements be strengthened and foster lasting peace 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 “Kinzonzi" wisdom among the Kongo to the "Tshala" facilitation among the Luba, the Congolese tribes are full of traditional resources to spare (Muan'Ambuta Ndongalasïa, 2008). Moreover, the attachment of many Congolese to religious beliefs encourages the reflection on the contribution of religion to peacebuilding. Religion, taken here in the sense of Godfried Danneels (2003) and its fundamental principles which are truth, justice, love, freedom. Finally, the proposal stresses the need for societies that have experienced war and pain, such as the DRC, to adopt a habit of remembrance. Making peace through remembrance is another alternative way to reconcile the country.
Key words: Classical peace agreements - alternative mechanisms - traditions - beliefs - memory - reconciliation