Implications of Complexity for Peacebuilding Policies and Practices

Abstract

This chapter explores the implications of Complexity for peacebuilding. It introduces Complexity by looking at systems, non-linearity, and self-organisation. The chapter also touches on the ethics of applying Complexity to peacebuilding. For instance, unintended consequences are inevitable and must be anticipated, so steps should be taken to monitor, mitigate, and adjust accordingly. The core finding of this chapter is that when peacebuilding attempts to control outcomes it generates ongoing instability, dependence, and fragility, because it undermines self-organisation. A Complexity informed approach to peacebuilding should be about safeguarding, stimulating, facilitating, and creating the space for societies to develop robust and resilient capacities for self-organisation. The key to successful peacebuilding lies in finding the appropriate balance between international support and local self-organisation.