Peacemaking Is Power Politics Again
The post-Cold War model of institutionalized peacemaking has waned. But influential capitals are still looking to end and avoid conflicts.
International peacemakers and activists face a challenging landscape today, marked by rising conflicts and hard power dynamics. Last year saw a record 65 state conflicts, while global military spending increased by 41 percent over the past decade. The United Nations Security Council has struggled to effectively address crises in Ukraine, Myanmar, Gaza, Sudan, and other regions. Militaries and armed groups employ brutal tactics like starvation and mass atrocities with little consequence.
Despite despair, the need for peacemaking remains crucial. To find potential drivers, we must look beyond traditional institutions and ideas. The post-Cold War era of extensive peacemaking efforts, supported by the U.N. and regional organizations, has faded. The last major comprehensive peace deal occurred a decade ago in Colombia. This fading of the "peace industry" is due to waning great-power tensions and the emergence of new geopolitical realities.
Historically, periods of great-power competition have also witnessed on-off peacemaking efforts by both powers and regional players. Even during the Cold War, superpowers engaged in off-ramps and arms control agreements, albeit driven by their self-interest. Today, rival powers have reasons to avoid war and show restraint, just as they did in the past.
Governments worldwide are seeking new ways to maximize security, often resorting to peace through strength and deterrence. Military spending and partnerships are increasing. Regional powers are stepping into the void left by diminished U.N. involvement. Malaysia mediated a border dispute between Thailand and Cambodia, while Pakistan led cease-fire talks following the U.S.-Israeli attack on Iran.
Some powers, like Qatar and Turkey, have actively engaged in peacemaking, working on conflicts across the globe. However, these efforts often yield limited and short-term deals. In a period of competition and uncertainty, regional powers must carefully calibrate their approaches to navigate the complex landscape.
Written by urgent.news from Foreign Policy's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
