peaceseeking

Peaceseeking is the practice and philosophy of pursuing conflict resolution and social harmony through nonviolent means. It emphasizes dialogue, mediation, negotiation, and inclusive decision-making as primary tools for resolving disputes at individual, community, national, and international levels. The term is often used to contrast ongoing, nonviolent efforts to prevent violence with more interventionist approaches such as armed peacekeeping or coercive diplomacy.

The concept situates peaceseeking within peace studies, nonviolent movements, and conflict transformation. It is associated with long-term processes that aim to address underlying causes of conflict—such as inequality, discrimination, and lack of trust—through restorative justice and dialogue. In practice, peaceseeking encompasses informal community mediation, track II diplomacy, and formal negotiations, with an emphasis on legitimacy, inclusivity, and respect for human rights.

Principles commonly linked to peaceseeking include nonviolence, human security, pluralism, and accountability. Methods can include stakeholder mapping, constructive dialogue, confidence-building measures, joint problem-solving, and reconciliation initiatives. Success is typically evaluated by reductions in violence, the durability of agreements, improved social trust, and the establishment of durable institutions for dispute resolution.

Critics argue that peaceseeking can be slow or ineffective in the face of acute existential threats, or that soft approaches may be co-opted or delayed by harder actors. Proponents respond that sustainable peace requires addressing root causes and building legitimacy to prevent relapse.

See also: peace studies; conflict resolution; nonviolence; diplomacy; peacebuilding.