COMMUNITY-DRIVEN PEACEBUILDING: THE ROLE OF INCLUSIVITY AND LOCAL LEADERSHIP IN CONFLICT RESOLUTION

Abstract

Traditional peacebuilding initiatives led by external organisations often struggle to address the complex social dynamics that perpetuate violence. However, there is a growing body of research supporting community-driven peacebuilding as an effective model for sustainable conflict resolution. It is against this backdrop that the study explores the role of community-driven peacebuilding with a focus on inclusivity and local leadership as essential elements for sustainable conflict resolution. Guided by Conflict Transformation Theory, this study examines how community-driven initiatives that prioritize inclusivity and local agency can address deep-rooted conflicts and promote long-term peace. Utilizing a secondary data analysis approach, the study synthesizes findings from reports, evaluations, and academic literature on peacebuilding. The findings reveal that inclusive frameworks contribute to enhanced community trust as well as reduce the likelihood of recurring conflicts. Local leaders play a fundamental role in mobilizing community support and mediating disputes. Recent peacebuilding efforts, such as the COMITAS Project, emphasize the need for community ownership and the engagement of local leaders, women, and youth in decision-making processes. The study also identifies several challenges, including limited resources, resistance from entrenched power structures, and security threats posed by extremist groups, all of which hinder the full realization of community-driven peace initiatives. To strengthen these efforts, it is recommended that peacebuilding frameworks be developed with enhanced funding and capacity-building programs to equip local leaders and communities for sustained engagement in conflict resolution.

Keywords: Community-Driven Peacebuilding, Inclusivity, Local Leadership, Conflict Transformation, Sustainable Conflict Resolution