An Examination of the Roles of Cooperatives in Post-conflict Societies

Abstract

Cooperatives are gaining prominence for providing a post-crisis response to communal conflicts , environmental disasters, and financial upheaval. This chapter examines the roles of cooperatives in post-conflict environments in Africa. The chapter explores how cooperatives are useful in post-conflict environments and the challenges and limitations they face in fragile and post-conflict societies. The chapter looks at the relationship between cooperatives and conflict mitigation on the continent within the context of development, peace-building and post-conflict reconstruction. It will draw out practical lessons and examples from within and beyond the African continent. The chapter hopes to contribute to existing discourses on conflict prevention and how to embed this on the African continent. This chapter argues that in limiting the future occurrence of violent conflict, cooperatives bring forth the linkages between development and peacebuilding ; two very important factors in preventing future conflict and guaranteeing sustainable peace.