Terms used in the field

18th March 2004

Author - Scilla Elworthy Ph.D

In this concise article Scilla Elworthy explains three of the common but often misunderstood terms used to describe various types of non-violent interventions.

There are three terms that are used to describe the various types of non-violent interventions. There are

Conflict prevention refers to strategies that address conflict when it is still latent, with the aim of preventing an escalation into full-blown violence. These strategies may include early warning systems, crisis de-fusion, civilian protection, peace-keeping, control of arms entering the region or the introduction of trained inspectors to detect and report ethnic cleansing, torture or rape.

Conflict resolution refers to strategies that address escalating or full-blown violence with the aim of finding not only an agreement to end the violence, but also a resolution of some of the incompatible goals underlying it. It may take the form of Track II or 'back channels' diplomacy, strategies to bring warlords and militias under control, training of mediators and bridge-builders or active reconciliation measures. The aim is to build new and lasting relationships between hostile groups.

Conflict transformation is the most thorough and far-reaching strategy, addressing the wider social and political sources of a conflict and seeking to transform the negative energy of war into positive social and political change1. It may address issues such as governance, power imbalances and global influences. Supporting civil society movements can be important here, including locally-based opposition to dictators, and better sources of information such as independent media. This approach recognises that the problems faced may derive from global issues, such as resource shortages, over which wealthier governments and institutions can exert influence.