Peace as Betrayal: On the human cost of relational peacebuilding in transitional contexts

Wilhelm Verwoerd, Alistair Little, Brandon Hamber

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

1 Citation (Scopus)
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Abstract

This article explores the micro-dynamics of intragroup betrayal and self-betrayal that can be evoked by relational peacebuilding between groups. The painful accusation of betrayal by close, family-type group members and internally feeling like a betrayer as a result of working with the ‘other side’ is presented as an underestimated human cost of relational peacebuilding. This understanding emerged from an international ‘Beyond Dehumanisation’ research project, which included experienced peace practitioners from South Africa, the Israel-Palestine region and the conflict in and about Northern Ireland. The emerging diagnostic framework is supported by (and provides empirical support for) theories of betrayal that stress how deeply relational betrayal is. The resonance with Margalit’s theory of betrayal as the ‘undermining of thick relations’ is especially strong. ‘Peace as betrayal’ suggests the need for more practical support for peacebuilders and can also be applied more widely to render resistance to transitional justice processes more visible.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)204-219
Number of pages16
JournalInternational Journal of Transitional Justice
Volume16
Issue number2
Early online date9 Mar 2022
DOIs
Publication statusPublished (in print/issue) - 31 Jul 2022

Bibliographical note

Publisher Copyright:
© 2022 The Author(s). Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved.

Keywords

  • Betrayal
  • betrayers
  • human cost
  • intragroup peacebuilding
  • micro-dynamics
  • resistance to transitional justice
  • Law

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