Definitions of Peace and Reconciliation in Russia and the Balkans

Abstract

This chapter discusses definitions of peace and reconciliation in a sample of respondents from three Balkan states and Russia. Distinctions between a positive and negative peace were considered, as well as peace building and reconciliation as processes of seeking genuine, just, and enduring ends to a conflict. The national context for peace and reconciliation in the region was discussed along with consideration of the region’s historical stigmatization. A strong inclination toward positive peace and a belief that it could be achieved through a demanding process were expressed by respondents in all four countries. Exploratory analyses revealed group differences in definitions based on gender, military service history, and engagement in peace protests; for example, women were more likely than men to give positive peace definitions, while men were more likely than women and non-protestors were more likely than protestors to question the achievability of peace. The majority of respondents defined reconciliation as a process, although there were again some demographic group differences in definitions. For example, women were more likely than men to give process definitions, and respondents with military service history were more likely than nonmilitary respondents to question the achievability of reconciliation. Awareness that a number of acts are necessary to achieve reconciliation (and therefore peace) is present, perhaps stemming from historical and current experiences of participants. Lack of future orientation in the answers of respondents could be concerning.