Conclusion

Abstract

Reflecting on the key insights and cross-cutting themes to emerge from the book, The Conclusion observes that the challenge of how to rebuild society following conflict has not become easier over time. It suggests that at thematic and country-level, the sheer complexity of the task at hand is understated, nor is their clarity on what successful peacebuilding looks like. Should we be guided by whether a society has been able to return to stability, which permits people to get on with their lives? Or must it entail some resolution of the underlying causes of conflict? The Conclusion affirms that more work needs to be done in three common areas of concern in peacebuilding worldwide-poor understanding of context, lack of local ownership and leadership, and inadequate collaboration-as well as several areas specific to Africa, notably is the mismatch between the pan-African ideal of self-reliance and the heavy dependency on external (non-African) funding.