Contemporary Peacemaking: Conflict, Violence and Peace Processes

• Published in: International journal (Toronto) Vol. 60; no. 3; pp. 884 - 886
• Main Author: Mockinlay, John
• Format: Book Review Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Toronto Canadian Institute of International Affairs 01.07.2005; Sage Publications Ltd
• Subjects: International relations; Peace negotiations; Reviews
• ISSN: 0020-7020; 2052-465X
• DOI: 10.2307/40204081

The papers range from compressed versions of previously published analysis by some well-known writers in this field to more original and stimulating views of the peace process phenomenon. In the latter category [Roger MacGinty] (chapter 20) shows how symbols become important in the struggle to reestablish a new identity and national unity, explaining the significance of South Africa's carefully selected flag, bank notes, and anthem. Virginia Gamba's chapter on disarmament also has the conviction of a writer with huge practical experience in her subject. As a whole, the collection is well organized and seems to have allowed for a degree of cross-fertilization between writers in each stage of the process. Even before September nth, many theorists and practitioners were beginning to see that the five-stage model explained in Contemporary Peacemaking represents an idealistic view. In the realists' version, longterm settlements rely first of all on the restoration of a monopoly of violence. In Bosnia, Kosovo, Afghanistan, and Iraq this required a concerted campaign involving all the elements of the response. Their collective aim was a restoration of individual security that would provide the basis for long-term nation building rather than the A versus B negotiating model that is favoured in Contemporary Peacemaking.