Evolutions in Liberal Peace: Contemporary Crises and New Horizons

Peacebuilding as a field includes a normative commitment to creating a specific outcome: peace. However, this term is frequently ambiguous and lacks a precise definition for both academics and practitioners. Without a definitive understanding of our objectives as an applied discipline, it becomes challenging to strategically develop interventions, policies, and social movements that effectively foster peace itself. Moreover, this term is often confined to the liberal peace paradigm.

We shall scrutinize the concept of liberal peace in the contemporary era by analyzing failures in both theory and implementation. Additionally, we will examine current crises in relation to the issues inherent in liberal peace frameworks and propose constructive alternatives. Our approach will incorporate creativity and envision a future state rooted in diverse and competing conceptions of peace.

What is the appropriate course of action moving forward? Should we refine and improve liberalism, or should we pursue a completely different path? This roundtable aims to collaborate with the audience to address these challenges and develop comprehensive answers to these questions.

As one of the final sessions of Peace Week, we hope to reflect on lessons learned and invite the audience to co-create knowledge with us. 

***Refreshments and snacks will be provided.

Speakers: 

• Sean Heravi:PhD Student, Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter School for Peace and Conflict Resolution (GMU)
• Tian Ford:PhD Student, Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter School for Peace and Conflict Resolution (GMU)
• Kemal Buyukyuksel:PhD Student, Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter School for Peace and Conflict Resolution (GMU)