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ABSTRACT
The objective of this study is to examine the processes, methods of conflict resolution, and methods of offender-community re-integration used by the local peace committees (LPCs). To achieve these objectives, the study used a qualitative research approach with the help of interviews, focus group discussions (FGDs), and document reviews to collect data in the study area. The study revealed that the LPCs follow a series of conflict resolution procedures from receiving cases to reconciliation ceremonies. The study further identified different methods of conflict resolution used by the LPCs to settle conflicts of different kinds. Furthermore, the study discovered that the LPCs are using the re-integrative shaming method to re-integrate the offender into the community. In conclusion, despite the very promising conflict resolution role they have, the LPCs are not without limitations. However, the commercialisation of the conflict resolution process by some LPC members, the politicisation of the LPCs, globalisation, and urbanisation are found to be the challenges that compromise the conflict resolution role of the LPCs in the study area. The study, therefore, recommends that working to alleviate the limitations associated with the system and use the LPCs as an asset for successful conflict resolution is important.
Acknowledgement
It is a pleasure for me to thank the participants of this research for their contribution and commitment. This study would not have been complete without their willingness to share their knowledge and experience.
Disclosure statement
No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).
Notes
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17 See note 14 above.
18 See note 14 above.
19 See note 8 above.
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22 See note 5 above.
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24 See note 7 above.
25 See note 9 above.
26 See note 10 above.
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28 See note 11 above.
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30 See note 14 above.
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57 Interview with North Wollo Zone Security Office, 2022.
58 Velthuizen, ‘Restoring relationships through cultural competency’.
59 Boege, ‘Traditional approaches to conflict transformation’.
60 Velthuizen, ‘Restorative justice and knowledge management in Africa’.
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Belay Asmare Aragaw
Belay Asmare Aragaw is an assistant Professor of Peace and Conflict Studies at Woldia University in the Department of Political Science and International Relations. He is involved in teaching, research, and community service activities of the University.