Narrative nudges to peace in protracted conflict: karabakh conflict as a case study

Abstract

Recent research in narrative psychology provides insights into the dynamics of collective memories and group identities and how they are exploited by populist and nationalist forces for instigating intergroup conflict. In particular, narrative approach to conflict is important in this regard. In one key way, this approach considers conflicts as competing stories and conflict resolution as narrative transformation and the creation of a common (shared) narrative. In this regard, two questions are of particular concern: 1) What kinds of narratives are conducive to reconciliation between adversaries? 2) Which strategies for dealing with narratives found in intergroup conflicts are effective? As a way of addressing these questions we have developed a theoretical model of narrative intervention which was empirically examined at the context of conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan over Nagorno Karabakh. These studies over the two decades have used different perspectives that enable us to identify “common suffering” type of narrative as a way of eliciting positive implicit attitudes and empathy among the conflicting parties. The research has also identified two psychological constructs - “painful collective memory” and “competitive victimhood”, which are often employed by political forces who are not interested in peace and reconciliation in the region.