Where is the local? Critical localism and peacebuilding

Bibliographic Data

ID5844355
AuthorsRoger Mac Ginty (0000-0002-6411-5507, Institute for Conflict Research, corresponding author)
Year2015
Volume36
Issue5
Pages840-856
Publication date2015-05-04
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessNo
TypeARTICLE
VenueThird World Quarterly (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 0143-6597 • E-ISSN: 1360-2241
PublisherTaylor & Francis (PUBLISHER • GB)
DOI10.1080/01436597.2015.1045482
OpenAlexW2132768683
LanguageEN
Citations received150
References cited57

This article is primarily a piece of conceptual scoping and considers the concept of 'the local' in relation to peacebuilding. It notes how the local is simultaneously held to blame for conflicts (as unenlightened, dangerous, uncivilised) and is also regarded as a saviour for international peace support operations. Local legitimacy, partnership and ownership of international peace interventions are seen as a fast track to success, sustainability and exit. The article navigates its way around this confused understanding of the local and argues that the local is a (not always helpful) construction. It further argues that, by applying a critical lens towards the concept of the local, we can seek to separate the concept of the local from territory and see it in terms of activity, networks and relationships. This has implications for practice and 'field' work

Blame · Localism · Peacebuilding · Punctuality · International Development and Aid · Peacebuilding and International Security · Religion, Society, and Development

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