Reconciliation Efforts Research Articles

Moral Injury as a Precondition for Reconciliation: An Anthropology of Veterans’ Lives and Peacemaking

In this article, I rely on religious existential philosophy to make sense of the moral restoration expressed by combat veterans who engage in reconciliation with former enemies after suffering from moral injury. Moral injury is the persistent feeling of having betrayed one’s deepest moral values. Anthropological research and analyses of combat veterans’ testimony suggest that moral injury may be associated with reconciliation, which is considered here as a manifestation of an inner transformation akin to existential philosophies of striving for moral authenticity. Specifically, it is argued that Thomas Merton’s defense of living a morally authentic life, which constitutes a process of moving from spiritual woundedness to social engagement with the other, parallels the transition of combat veterans involved in postconflict reconciliation efforts. Given this correspondence, existential moral transformation is considered alongside the anthropology of peace for explaining moral injury as a precondition for reconciliation, notably after armed conflict.

The necropolitics of military amnesty: Peacebuilding and Othering in Northern Ireland

Necropolitics, as described by Achille Mbembe, is the sovereign’s capacity to dictate who may live and who must die. In its delineation of which bodies can be killed and which bodies must not be killed, necropolitics is the framework through which governments assign value to human life that justifies killing in the name of the greater good. Proposed legislation in the UK Parliament from 2021 suggested the state intended to limit prosecutions of British service personnel for killings that occurred during Operation Banner, the UK military operation in Northern Ireland from 1969 to 2007. Interrogating the employment of military amnesty, we discuss the ways amnesty can maintain necropolitical organizations by working to reaffirm antagonistic relations between peacebuilding parties despite claims that it is a reconciliatory measure. Through a necropolitical lens, we examine historical approaches to military prosecutions by the UK alongside current proposals for amnesty over conflict-related homicides committed in Northern Ireland. Interrogating peacebuilding and reconciliation efforts made in the UK to address the conflict in Northern Ireland, we assert that the calls for amnesty remain under the same necropolitical organization that facilitated the Troubles to begin with and maintain narratives that Other Northern Ireland from Britain.

Challenges and Possibilities for Truth and Reconciliation In Teacher Education: An Engagement with the Literature

This article delves into the evolving landscape of teacher education within the context of truth and reconciliation, acknowledging the profound role education has played in perpetuating colonial violence against Indigenous peoples. To assess reconciliation efforts in teacher education, a targeted search was undertaken, which resulted in an inductive thematic analysis of 36 scholarly works and the emergence of five overarching themes: anti-racist/anti-oppressive perspectives, decolonization, critical forms of pedagogy/narrativity, indigenization, and historical thinking. The analysis provides valuable insights and highlights challenges of advancing truth and reconciliation in education including the need for a paradigm shift within teacher education programs, urging them to adopt community-focused, land-based, and decolonizing approaches. By aligning with the spirit and intent of truth and reconciliation, and as the studies demonstrate, teacher education has the potential to contribute significantly to advancing the process of healing, justice, and mutual understanding in the journey toward a more equitable and harmonious future.

Peacebuilding Efforts in Civil War-Affected Countries in Afghanistan

Purpose: The aim of the study was to analyze peacebuilding efforts in civil war-affected countries in Afghanistan. Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries. Findings: Peacebuilding in war-torn Afghanistan faces hurdles due to ongoing conflict, ethnic divides, and Taliban resurgence. Governance reforms and reconciliation efforts struggle amidst poverty and corruption. Despite some progress, achieving lasting peace is an uphill battle. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Liberal peacebuilding theory, critical peacebuilding theory & relational peacebuilding theory may be used to anchor future studies on the peacebuilding efforts in civil war-affected countries in Afghanistan. Peacebuilding efforts should prioritize local ownership, inclusivity, and participatory approaches that empower affected communities to take an active role in shaping their own futures. Peacebuilding efforts should be integrated into broader development, security, and governance frameworks to ensure coherence, coordination, and sustainability.

Dismantling racism in the field of psychology and beyond: Introduction to the special issue.

In 2021, the American Psychological Association (APA) passed a series of resolutions that initiated a process of atonement for its participation in promoting, perpetuating, and failing to challenge racism and discrimination toward communities of color (APA, 2021a, 2021b). The purpose of this special issue was to examine the ways in which the field of psychology has perpetuated racial hierarchy and harm toward communities of color. More importantly, the included articles offer guidance on the mechanisms and strategies that will aid in the dismantling of racism in the field of psychology and support efforts of reconciliation, repair, and healing. In this introduction, we present a brief history of racism in the field of psychology and highlight theories and methods that should be considered as efforts to combat systemic racial inequities. Articles in this special issue fall into four specific themes that include bias and scientific racism in research, intergroup collaboration, organizational and clinical implications, and changing the culture of psychology. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2024 APA, all rights reserved).

Spatio‐Temporal Trends of the Relationships Between Surface PM2.5 and Its Chemical Constituents Across Three COALESCE Network Locations in India: A Mass Closure Investigation

AbstractCOALESCE, a collaborative network studying the impacts of carbonaceous aerosols, measured PM2.5 mass and its constituents at several regionally representative sites in India. This study reconciles the reconstructed mass (RCM) from PM2.5 chemical constituents with gravimetric PM2.5 mass measured during 2019 at three COALESCE sites (Bhopal, Mesra, and Mysuru). To evaluate the extent of mass closure, the spatiotemporal variability of organic matter/organic carbon (OM/OC), filter sampling artifacts of OC, nitrate, and aerosol liquid water (ALW) were assessed. The annual loss of total particulate OC from Teflon filters varied across Bhopal (0.46–1.35 μg m−3), Mesra (0.30–0.92 μg m−3), and Mysuru (0.16–0.68 μg m−3). Likewise, the range of nitrate volatilization was 0.7–2.7 μg m−3 at Bhopal, 0.5–2 μg m−3 at Mesra, and 1.3–2.2 μg m−3 at Mysuru. Also, the range of ALW mass was 2.6–6.8 μg m−3 at Bhopal, 3.2–9.5 μg m−3 at Mesra, and 0.8–3.8 μg m−3 at Mysuru. Seasonality was observed in the value of OM/OC with an increase during the pre‐monsoon season at all sites viz., Bhopal (2.20), Mesra (1.61), and Mysuru (2.02) compared to their annual averages, suggesting enhanced contribution of secondary organics to OC. The method developed for estimating RCM in this study resulted in better mass closure compared to using conventional RCM algorithms. Overall, this study provides a robust data validation strategy and India‐specific species coefficients for use in the RCM algorithm. The outcomes of this study can guide regional aerosol sampling, chemical analyses, and model–measurement reconciliation efforts.

‘It always seems impossible, until it is done’: Perspectives on reconciliation and its underlying processes in post‐conflict societies

AbstractThis Special Issue editorial explores perspectives on intergroup reconciliation and its underlying processes in post‐conflict societies, emphasizing the importance of four key themes: 1) victimhood, 2) acknowledgment, 3) forgiveness, and 4) intergroup contact. After presenting the state of the art in reconciliation research, we present the individual contributions in this Special Issue, and we link them to the four key themes. We end this editorial by setting out an agenda for future research, underscoring the timeliness and relevance of reconciliation efforts in today's world. By offering insights into evidence‐based interventions and practical strategies for promoting positive intergroup relations, this Special Issue hopes to contribute to the broader discourse on peacebuilding and social cohesion in post‐conflict societies.

Armed conflict as a threat to social cohesion: Large-scale displacement and its short- and long-term effects on in-group perceptions

This study investigates the short- and long-term consequences of armed conflict and displacement on social cohesion among citizens within attacked nations, using Ukraine and Bosnia and Herzegovina as case studies. Through a pre-registered vignette study in Ukraine (December 2022; N = 1,623), we reveal a significant difference in social cohesion between those who stayed in the country during the war and those who left. This difference intensified when those who left did not want to return. A similar difference persists in Bosnia and Herzegovina 30 years after the Bosnian War (May 2023, N = 338), despite extensive reconciliation efforts. Our findings point towards an understudied consequence of armed conflict and displacement on social cohesion within the attacked nation and shed light on the challenges to post-war reconciliation.

South Korea and North Korea: Differences in Ideology and Their Impact on War

This article analyzes the ideological differences between South Korea and North Korea and their impact on war, especially the Korean War (1950-1953). South Korea adheres to the ideology of liberal democracy and capitalism, while North Korea practices the ideology of Juche, socialism and autonomy. These differences have deepened conflict on the Korean Peninsula, reaching its peak in the Korean War. The impact is felt to this day with military tensions in the DMZ. Despite this, reconciliation efforts have been made, offering hope for peace in the region. This research was conducted descriptively using a literature study which was then analyzed to identify ideological differences between South Korea and North Korea and their impact on the war.

Interpretasi Asas Mempersulit Perceraian dalam Perspektif Hukum Islam

Marriage, as a facilitator of tranquility, affection, and mercy, may encounter serious challenges influenced by various reasons. When conflicts escalate within a household, Islam provides a solution through divorce or "talak." Despite the majority of Indonesian society viewing the pronouncement of talak as a sign of marriage dissolution, in reality, divorce is considered official only after a decision by the Religious Court in accordance with applicable regulations. This study employs a literature review method, focusing on collecting literary data and adopting a conceptual approach. The researcher details aspects of the law in Law No. 1 of 1974 related to the validity of talak in court according to Islamic law in Indonesia. Perspectives on divorce in Islam and the Marriage Law emphasize the necessity of implementation with consideration, justice, and responsibility. The primary objective of this research is to provide a comprehensive overview of the principle of complicating divorce and the validity of talak in court. The findings in this paper reveal that Islamic law, through Thalaq, regulates divorce with clear limitations, emphasizing the importance of administering Allah's law justly. The Marriage Law in Indonesia leads to complex procedures, including reconciliation efforts at the Religious Court before divorce. These regulations reflect awareness of the well-being and justice for all parties involved. The principle of complicating divorce in the Religious Court aims to encourage wise decisions, consider mutual interests, and ensure compliance with Islamic legal norms, creating a better understanding of Islamic law and Sharia with positive implications for society.

Exploring the Importance of Sports in Maintaining International Relations

This research explores the transformative role that sports play in fostering positive global connections and promoting peace among nations. By examining various case studies and theoretical frameworks, we aim to establish a strong foundation for understanding how sporting events can serve as catalysts for diplomacy, cultural exchange, and social development. The study will delve into historical examples such as the Olympic Games' impact on post-World War II reconciliation efforts, while also analyzing contemporary instances like the FIFA World Cup's ability to unite diverse communities across borders. We propose that sports have unique potential to bridge gaps between countries, promote mutual respect, and facilitate dialogue amidst complex geopolitical landscapes. Through an interdisciplinary approach combining sociology, political science, and communication theory, our findings will contribute valuable insights towards enhancing international cooperation through sports. Ultimately, this research aims to provide evidence supporting the notion that sports are not merely recreational activities but powerful tools for advancing global harmony and unity.

A Pentecostal and charismatic contribution to peace and reconciliation: Case study of Northern Ireland

ABSTRACT Despite the marking of the twenty-fifth anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement (1998), there remains a significant fragility of peace in Northern Irish society today. Recent periods of collapse at Stormont government and high rates of segregation between Catholic and Protestant communities, evidence a need for alternative contributions to peace and reconciliation efforts. A specific focus on the role of religious actors in reconciliation pursuits has often been met with scepticism due to historic religious-political institutional ties. However, challenging the increasing trend of secularism in Northern Ireland has been the growth of Pentecostal and charismatic communities across the region. Thus, a major question is: How can the Pentecostal and charismatic movement contribute positively to peace and reconciliation? This article explores the possibility of adopting a Pentecostal and charismatic approach to peace, forgiveness and reconciliation, utilising the case study of Northern Ireland. Such an analysis is integral to discerning the movement's positive potential for peace and reconciliation work in the pursuit of post-conflict societal transformation.

Incorporating First Nations, Inuit and Métis Traditional Healing Spaces within a Hospital Context: A Place-Based Study of Three Unique Spaces within Canada's Oldest and Largest Mental Health Hospital.

Globally and historically, Indigenous healthcare is efficacious, being rooted in Traditional Healing (TH) practices derived from cosmology and place-based knowledge and practiced on the land. Across Turtle Island, processes of environmental dispossession and colonial oppression have replaced TH practices with a colonial, hospital-based system found to cause added harm to Indigenous Peoples. Growing Indigenous health inequities are compounded by a mental health crisis, which begs reform of healthcare institutions. The implementation of Indigenous knowledge systems in hospital environments has been validated as a critical source of healing for Indigenous patients and communities, prompting many hospitals in Canada to create Traditional Healing Spaces (THSs). After ten years, however, there has been no evaluation of the effectiveness of THSs in Canadian hospitals in supporting healing among Indigenous Peoples. In this paper, our team describes THSs within the Center for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), Canada's oldest and largest mental health hospital. Analyses of 22 interviews with hospital staff and physicians describe CAMH's THSs, including what they look like, how they are used, and by whom. The results emphasize the importance of designating spaces with and for Indigenous patients, and they highlight the wholistic benefits of land-based treatment for both clients and staff alike. Transforming hospital spaces by implementing and valuing Indigenous knowledge sparks curiosity, increases education, affirms the efficacy of traditional healing treatments as a standard of care, and enhances the capacity of leaders to support reconciliation efforts.

Bridges of Peace: The Role of Symbols and Rituals in Peacebuilding

Purpose of the Study: This article investigates how symbols and rituals contribute to conflict management in deeply divided societies. Methodology: Through qualitative library research, this study examines the impact of symbols and rituals on peace-building by analyzing theoretical frameworks and case studies. Main Findings: The study identifies that symbols and rituals play a crucial role in the peace-building process, achievable through two primary methods: the creation of new symbols and rituals that draw on inclusive narratives to foster a shared symbolic space promoting multicultural tolerance, and the creative manipulation of existing symbols and rituals to challenge and subvert historical power dynamics. Applications of this Study: The findings offer valuable insights for policymakers, peace-building practitioners, and community leaders engaged in conflict resolution and reconciliation efforts. By understanding the dual potential of symbols and rituals in peace-building, stakeholders can develop more effective strategies to address the underlying causes of division and promote enduring peace in divided societies. Novelty/Originality of this Study: This research contributes to the field by providing a comprehensive analysis of the transformative power of symbols and rituals in peace-building. It showcases how these cultural elements can be strategically leveraged to support reconciliation and unity, marking a significant advancement in the understanding of non-traditional mechanisms of conflict resolution and peace-building efforts.

Why Gaps Matter—A Negative Hermeneutical Approach to the Reconciliation Process in the Diocese of British Columbia Based on the Example of Bishop Logan's “Sacred Journey”

ABSTRACTThis essay delves into the utilization of a negative hermeneutical approach, focusing on gaps, tensions, and the absence of elements, to enrich our comprehension of reconciliation efforts. It posits that this method aids in discerning more and less appropriate approaches to reconciliation processes. Negative hermeneutics serves as both a technique and an ongoing journey of exploration, self‐assessment, and understanding our connection with otherness. By critically engaging with perspectives, it prompts deeper questions and fosters a heightened awareness of the limitations inherent in one's viewpoint. Drawing from examples within the ongoing “Reconciliation and Beyond” initiative of the diocese of British Columbia, specifically Bishop Logan's “Sacred Journey,” the essay illustrates how this approach holds potential. It demonstrates how a focus on negative aspects—those initially resistant to conventional academic scrutiny, like silence and materiality—offers valuable insights into critical practices and academic implications. Furthermore, the essay analyses how a hermeneutical process involving receiving, deconstructing, and recreating can introduce innovative perspectives for understanding reconciliation efforts.

Reconciliation as an Essential Ingredient in Peace Building: A Case Study of Crude Oil-Related Conflicts

Reconciliation is a vital component of conflict resolution. This is true because, dispute settlement without genuine reconciliation will only result in compromise without necessarily uniting the aggrieved and the aggressor. This study has explored the extent of oil related conflict and effectiveness of reconciliation initiatives in Ilaje and Ese-Odo Local Government areas in Ondo State. Both online and physical approach was used to gather data from a total sample of 150 participants drawn across the study areas and descriptive research approach was adopted. Five research questions were raised and answered. Descriptive analysis reveals the following: factors contributing to oil related conflict in region include unequal distribution of royalties, government and company policies as well as competition for oil related resources. Oil related conflict is an occasional incident in Ilaje and Ese-Odo Local Government Areas of Ondo State. There have been reconciliation efforts (64% agreement) in Ilaje and Ese Odo aiming to address oil related conflict. The effectiveness of the reconciliation attempts was judged moderate pointing to the fact that they are still unresolved grievances among the affected parties. The major setbacks found to effective reconciliation initiatives include greed, cultural differences, distrust, political interferences and sentiment. The study recommends, among others, that oil companies, government agencies fulfil should fully implement all the promises/agreements reached with the oil producing region and that the royalties should not only end in the pockets of selected few.

Towards a Communist Armed Conflict Indigenous Settlement Framework: Revisiting Vietnam, Singapore, and Taiwan Experience

Armed conflicts between governments and indigenous inhabitants in Singapore, Taiwan, and Vietnam have deep roots in historical tensions and the marginalization of minority groups. This qualitative study explores these factors and evaluates government strategies for conflict resolution, focusing on disparities in settlement, education, employment, and community engagement. Government actions such as military operations, peacebuilding, and comprehensive programs were analyzed. Singapore's strategies, including community engagement and socio-economic development, fostered stability and inclusivity. Taiwan's reconciliation efforts, including apologies and democratization, reduced conflict and promoted indigenous rights. Vietnam's initiatives for ethnic minority development underscored its commitment to peace through inclusive approaches. Historical contexts in these countries, marked by ethnic tensions, colonial legacies, and ideological divisions, shaped significant violence and social divisions, necessitating robust security measures and reconciliation efforts. Lessons learned emphasize diplomacy, international cooperation, and socio-economic integration for lasting peace. Governments must prioritize dialogue, inclusive policies, and sustainable development supported by international partnerships. Effective conflict resolution integrates socioeconomic development and reconciliation efforts, crucial for building resilient societies and fostering peace among Indigenous populations.

The Geopolitical Implications of Taiwan-China Relations on Regional Security

Introduction: China and Taiwan is fraught with tension as Taiwan seeks to maintain its autonomy against China's growing power. This relationship is a critical flashpoint in East Asia, with conflicting sovereignty claims hindering diplomatic progress. To manage this situation, it is essential to understand its complexities and avoid provoking Beijing, allowing time for future generations to reassess the relationship. Methodology: The objective of this research is to investigate particular issue regarding China and Taiwan within the realm of political science by utilizing secondary data. The review encompasses a variety of primary and secondary sources, including articles, books, journals, and pertinent online data. The objective of this literature evaluation is to discern deficiencies, regularities, and tendencies in the current research pertaining to the subject matter. Results/ Findings: The China-Taiwan relationship is characterized by political instability, divergent interests, and historical tensions, fueled by linguistic, ethnic, religious, and political disparities. The Taiwan Strait symbolizes the enduring animosity between the two, complicating reconciliation efforts. Regional security concerns are exacerbated by China's actions in the South China Sea, necessitating responses from stakeholders like the US, Japan, and South Korea. Taiwan's geopolitical importance, economic strength, technological advancements, and military capabilities underscore its significance in regional security and global trade. Future Direction/ Implication: The future of China-Taiwan relations relies on diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions and promote dialogue. Prioritizing stability and peaceful dispute resolution is crucial amid regional security concerns, with implications extending beyond the Taiwan Strait to influence global geopolitics.

Tino Rangatiratanga- Indigenous (MĀORI) Sovereignty and the messy realities of reconciliation efforts at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup

Organisers of the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup event made explicit their aim to ‘be and do better’ regarding the inclusion and representation of Indigenous peoples. This was particularly important because in seeking to jointly secure the right to host the event, both Aotearoa New Zealand and Australia made much of including and showcasing Indigenous cultures in their respective countries. Subsequently, organisers incorporated Indigenous flags, language, and rituals throughout the event. FIFA appointed cultural advisors to enhance cultural understanding among teams. However, the Spanish national team, “La Roja”, sparked controversy by posting a video mocking the haka, ‘Ka Mate,’ a cultural treasure to Māori, the Indigenous people of Aotearoa New Zealand. This led to public outcry, calls for apology, and efforts to reconcile relations. In this commentary, we explore this incident, critiquing FIFA and the current state of event management regarding the inclusion of Indigeneity and engagement with Indigenous Peoples.

FAKTOR-FAKTOR PENYEBAB TINGGINYA CERAI GUGAT DI KABUPATEN SINTANG

The aims of this study are: 1) To find out the factors that cause the high rate of divorce in the Sintang Religious Court; 2) To find out the stages of handling a lawsuit for divorce in the Sintang Religious Court. This research uses qualitative methods, while the type of research used is empirical research that uses data in the field as the main data source. The data sources of this study used primary data sources, namely in the form of interviews with judges and clerks of the Sintang Religious Court whose subjects had been determined, then secondary data sources, namely from books, documents, journals and other data sources that could complement this research. The technique used in this research data collection is observation, interviews and documentation. The data collection techniques in this study were using interview guidelines, observation guidelines and smart phones. And the researcher's data analysis technique used data reduction, data exposure and drawing conclusions. Furthermore, the data validity technique is using triangulation techniques between data sources. Based on the analysis conducted by the researchers, it can be concluded that: 1) The factors that cause the high level of divorce in the Sintang Religious Court are due to continuous disputes and quarrels, leaving one party, economy, apostasy, domestic violence (domestic violence), gambling, drunk, sentenced to prison, disabled and forced marriage. However, among the factors above, the most dominant in the Sintang Religious Court is due to continuous disputes and quarrels between husbands. 2) The following are the stages of handling the divorce petition at the Sintang Religious Court, namely: reconciliation efforts, reading of the plaintiff's lawsuit, the defendant's answer, the defendant's reply, the defendant's duplicate, proof, the conclusions of the parties, the panel of judges' deliberation and the judge's decision.