Where is the local? Critical localism and peacebuilding

Abstract

This article is primarily a piece of conceptual scoping and considers the concept of 'the local' in relation to peacebuilding. It notes how the local is simultaneously held to blame for conflicts (as unenlightened, dangerous, uncivilised) and is also regarded as a saviour for international peace support operations. Local legitimacy, partnership and ownership of international peace interventions are seen as a fast track to success, sustainability and exit. The article navigates its way around this confused understanding of the local and argues that the local is a (not always helpful) construction. It further argues that, by applying a critical lens towards the concept of the local, we can seek to separate the concept of the local from territory and see it in terms of activity, networks and relationships. This has implications for practice and 'field' work.

Peace formation from below: The “mirëdita, dobar dan!” festival as an alternative to everyday nationalism

“…In grappling with the concept of the local in peacebuilding, Mac Ginty reaffirms the local as a system of beliefs and practices that “loose communities” and networks may adopt (Mac Ginty, , p. 851). The everyday peace diplomacy discussed here relies on people “… who can see their own areas or networks in terms of opportunities and alternatives (however slight)” ( ibid ., p. 852).…”

Peacebuilding and conceptualisations of the local

“…But, two decades later, the word “local” is everywhere’ (2015: 840). Whereas that document defines peacebuilding as outside intervention, the local turn moved locally driven peacebuilding initiatives into the centre of attention (Paffenholz : 859–60) in order ‘to rescue international intervention and peacebuilding’ (Mac Ginty : 841).…”

Da transformação de conflitos à paz híbrida: uma análise das ideias de John Paul Lederach e Roger Mac Ginty

“…Dessa forma, surgem críticas referentes a captação de recursos, ao estabelecimento de autoridades e à própria legitimidade dos processos locais de paz. Mac Ginty (2015) interpreta o local como um problema e uma solução. Utilizando-se de suas reflexões:…”