Beneficiaries are actors too.pdf - Southern Institute of Peace ...

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Re-examining the role of NGOs in
conflict resolution: Friends or foes
Kudakwashe D. K. Tapfumaneyi, Zimbabwe Open University
Gift Rupande, Zimbabwe Open University
Abstract
NGOs have been heavily involved in various conflict resolution
initiatives of various forms and types. The conflicts NGOs are
involved in range from minor resource disputes to fully fledged
ethnic wars. The increased involvement of NGOs in various
conflict resolution initiatives in the developing world has put
them under closer scrutiny as to their real reasons for their
involvement in conflict resolution and peace building. The paper
explores the nature and functions of NGOs in conflict
resolution, in providing such services as psycho-social support
thus giving a more comprehensive picture of the spectrum of
NGO activities in relation to resolving conflict and making
peace, especially in Africa. The paper argues that certain
activities of NGOs have inevitably and unintentionally
perpetuated conflict in some instances. The paper highlights
how NGOs are at times viewed as partial mediators in conflict
resolution initiatives and why their links with western nations
through funding and origins make them liable to suspicion of
having biases in resolving conflicts in ways that suit their
western sponsors. The paper proposes ways in which NGOs may
play a meaningful, transparent and impartial role in conflict
resolution and peace building in Africa.
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