Conflict resolution from below: The case of local peace committees in North Wollo Zone, Amhara Region, Ethiopia

Abstract

ABSTRACT The objective of this study is to examine the processes, methods of conflict resolution, and methods of offender-community re-integration used by the local peace committees (LPCs). To achieve these objectives, the study used a qualitative research approach with the help of interviews, focus group discussions (FGDs), and document reviews to collect data in the study area. The study revealed that the LPCs follow a series of conflict resolution procedures from receiving cases to reconciliation ceremonies. The study further identified different methods of conflict resolution used by the LPCs to settle conflicts of different kinds. Furthermore, the study discovered that the LPCs are using the re-integrative shaming method to re-integrate the offender into the community. In conclusion, despite the very promising conflict resolution role they have, the LPCs are not without limitations. However, the commercialisation of the conflict resolution process by some LPC members, the politicisation of the LPCs, globalisation, and urbanisation are found to be the challenges that compromise the conflict resolution role of the LPCs in the study area. The study, therefore, recommends that working to alleviate the limitations associated with the system and use the LPCs as an asset for successful conflict resolution is important.