Contemporary Conflict Resolution

'This book marks a milestone in peace research. The insightful review of the early development of the field of conflict resolution brings a much-needed perspective on the challenges presented by late twentieth-century conflicts. The authors provide a complex and highly differentiated view of today's international collectivity, in which no one set of actors or perspectives predominates. The analysis of contemporary conflict processes is brilliant, and is solidified by case studies of ongoing conflicts and the roles played by governments, the UN, NGOs and grassroots groups. The authors' attention to the actual indigenous peacemaking capabilities that remain in even the most violent war zones, capabilities that are usually ignored and overrun by outside intervenors, is very important for the strengthening of viable peacebuilding activity in such zones. These local capabilities are the basis for hope in a violent world.

This book is a must for students in the fields of peace studies and international relations, for researchers and practitioners, and for policy-makers.' Elise Boulding, former Secretary-General of the International Peace Research Association and Professor Emerita of Sociology, Dartmouth College 'Since 1988 thirty-eight peace accords have been signed, most of them internal. The publication of this book is a timely response to this remarkable new phenomenon. It is a most comprehensive and well-written overview of conflict resolution theory and practice, appraising the literature on every stage of the cycle, from conflict prevention through violence to peacebuilding.' Professor John Darby, University of Ulster