No abstract

No abstract

This chapter dives deeper into the theoretical framework proposed in this book by identifying, characterizing and proposing concrete indicators at the observable level for assessing and analyzing the elements of identity in conflict. The argument developed is that an empirical examination of the processes of identity building in protracted conflicts shows that these feature two main elements—and coexisting dynamics—which can be seen as opposing poles that might contribute to deepening the conflict or promoting its transformation instead. By identifying the dimensions and observable indicators that allow for an assessment of these processes of dehumanization and peace-less reconciliation, this chapter offers a tool for empirical analyses of protracted conflicts and policy development toward their positive transformation.

This chapter examines the period from the Second Intifada (2001) to nowadays, following the failure of the implementation of the Oslo Accords. It suggests that a politics of ‘no war, no peace’ has been established and normalized, while cultural violence has deepened despite the efforts of the longest peace process in contemporary history. It examines the effects at the observable level of the stalemate of the protracted peace process and the institutionalization of dehumanization as a radical political agenda. One of the main effects of the now stalled peace process, it explores how peace has been subcontracted by the very actors of the dying peace process that act as donors and sponsors of an increasing number of civil society organizations (CSOs) and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) that have been involved in the peacebuilding process by bridging reconciliation in the societal level. The argument developed is that the dual and simultaneous processes of dehumanization and peace-less reconciliation that work in parallel in this conflict suggests that in the almost absence of the peace process there have emerged and intensified several activities that seek to counteract the already verified tendency of dehumanization in the societal level, pointing to alternative routes and their potential for peacemaking.

This chapter analyzes the brief, although game-changing, Oslo Era. This chapter argues that the Oslo period has operated a rupture in the already existing tendency of dehumanizing the ‘other’, as discourses and narratives connected to dehumanization in the elite level deeply impacted perceptions on the societal level, creating the environment for the positive transformation of the conflict. However, its conclusions point to the pernicious impact of the disappointment connected to the feelings of loss of expectations and hope, as well as the emergence of new narratives about blames and responsibilities, which have added new grievances to the already existing ones.