The de-escalation of violence and the political economy of peace-mongering

Abstract

Why do some episodes of violence escalate while others do not? While the micro-foundations of communal violence are well known, the micro-foundations of “peace mongering” are under-studied. This article studies attempts at de-escalating violence in Maluku, Indonesia. It finds that the actions of non-state elites are crucial for de-escalating conflict. However, the efficacy of peace-oriented action is largely determined by the presence or absence of “institutionalized de-escalation systems.” These institutions are directly geared towards conflict prevention and de-escalation and are distinct from inter-communal associational and business networks. While attitudes favourable to peace and stability are found in many post-conflict contexts, they do not always translate into the emergence of institutionalized de-escalation systems. This article argues that such systems emerge only where a specific political economy of peace exists. In such an economy, some non-state actors see an opportunity in peace mongering to fulfill their material and social interests.