Digital Peacebuilding: A Framework for Critical–Reflexive Engagement

Abstract

Existing research on digital technologies in peacebuilding exhibits both tech-solutionist and tech-problematizing traits that tend to understate their embeddedness in society and politics. We argue that the study of digital peacebuilding should instead reflexively engage with the coproduction of the technical and the social in both academia and practice. This requires asking how assumptions about technology are related to assumptions about the conflict and peacebuilding context on which these technologies are brought to bear, and with what consequences. Therefore, we propose a methodological framework that brings to the fore how technologies for peacebuilding and peacebuilding with technology are coproduced. First, we focus on the interrelated claims about peacebuilding and technology, and the coproduction of peacebuilding problems and technological solutions. Second, we inquire into the characteristics of the digital peacebuilding agendas built on these claims, including the dynamics of disruptive change and datafication that these agendas bring. Third, we consider the sticky effects of digital approaches, in terms of a politicization or depoliticization of peacebuilding efforts, and ask what kind of peace this may produce.

Realizing Peace in the Digital World

“…By emphasizing the importance of promoting peace on the international stage, Indonesia underscores its commitment to fostering global stability and resilience in addressing ongoing conflicts. This diplomatic effort aligns with Indonesia's broader foreign policy objectives aimed at promoting peace, cooperation, and sustainable development on a global scale (Hirblinger, 2023).…”

“…Considering the positive impacts that can result from the dissemination of messages of peace on social media, this research is important to further explore effective strategies in disseminating these messages and overcoming the challenges faced in the process. Through a deeper understanding of trends, community participation, and related challenges, it is hoped that this research can make a significant contribution to optimizing the role of social media as a means to build peace and social harmony (Hirblinger, 2023).…”

Virtual Reality Technologies as PeaceTech: Supporting Ukraine in Practice and Research

“…The organization AI for Peace distinguishes between PeaceTech as “technology that contributes to peacebuilding” and digital peacebuilding as “the broader nexus between the field of peacebuilding and digital technologies” (Panic, 2022). Research on digital peacebuilding further discerns “technologies for peacebuilding” and “peacebuilding with technology,” respectively, referring to the co-production of the technical and the social (Hirblinger et al, 2022, pp. 2–3).…”