Introduction

Abstract

Persistent and newly emerging conflicts around the world make the search for successful and sustainable conflict-resolution methods imperative. With traditional military interventions leading to the transformation of entire regions into zones of ongoing instability and violence (e.g., Iraq, Libya and Afghanistan), the study of alternative and less violent approaches to conflict resolution is gaining momentum. This volume, edited by Martin Leiner and Christine Schliesser, originates from the observation witnessed currently regarding the development and implementation of significant and successfully tried and tested, and cost-effective, alternative approaches to conflict resolution. Alternatives approaches have the potential to change perceptions on what is the right thing to do before, in, and after conflicts. The individual contributions focus on initiatives from four distinct areas: negotiation, gender and religion, reconciliation and forgiveness, and the arts.