From Management of Incompatibles to the Transformation of Antagonism

Abstract

The scope of understanding in peace mediations depends on how ‘peace’ and ‘conflict’ is understood and, furthermore, how it is seen to be possible to manage, solve or transform conflicts. Peace mediation in its classical terms is firmly based on the conflict management approach and it aims to look for a win–win situation among the conflict parties. Conflict management understands incompatible interests as a source of conflict, and presumes that these interests are negotiable. The conflict transformation approach takes an alternative approach. It understands conflict as a socially constructed relationship between parties and it aims to turn destructive, violent forms of conflict into non-violent ones. In order to do this, conflict transformation prioritizes transforming antagonist relationships, discourses, attitudes and interests. Rather than try to adjust the positions of the parties and compromise between their differing interests, conflict transformation attempts to change the nature and functions of violence.