1

Conflict Resolution:
A Tool for Nation Building

Anjana Dayal de Prewitt, MS.

I destroy my enemies when I make them my friends – Abraham

Lincoln

Introduction
Peace education has been studied around institutions of higher education for
the last fifty years. This paper is an exercise in peace education in that it
provides a systematic analysis of armed conflicts and their effects versus
creative problem solving that include diplomacy and negotiations and mutual
respect and dignity. The paper is divided into two parts: a framework for
peace, and a case study on Afghanistan to illustrate the practicality of the
approach. The paper recommends a way forward: (a) cost-benefit analysis of
the on-going conflicts, (b) finding common grounds and (c) adopting a shared
vision. It concludes with a case study

Background
Conflicts have been part of the human race right from the beginning of time.
When we look at ancient history, human beings always found themselves in
midst of certain conflict/s. As per the Old Testament, the first children, Cain and
Able had differences on how to please God and one ended up killing the other.
The Tanakh, the Bible and the Qur'an talk about innumerous battles that took
place for innumerous reasons. From the Greek context, the Iliad celebrates
war, where passion, pain and glory of warriors is depicted. The Hindu
mythology talks about the great war of ‘Mahabharata’, where hundred
‘Kauravs’ fought with the ‘Pandavas’, the five brave and upright brothers.
Medieval and modern histories demonstrate how the human race indulged in
wars time and time again. Whether, it was the World War I, World War II, the
armed conflict in the Balkans, Kashmir, Somalia, Civil War in the United States,
the genocide of Rwanda and many others, human blood has been shed.
Throughout generations, nations have tried to establish their power by killing
the fellow human beings on the other side and not to forget losing their own in
the process. Sometimes, it is greed for resources such as money, oil, land or
even food and sometimes it is the scarcity thereof that leads a population to an
internal conflict or war with another state. Inequality too, when done in excess
or for too long, has a part in provoking violent retaliation. We fight because our
 2

religions are different, our ethnicity is not the same, our beliefs contradict each
other, our personal agendas do not match but every time the human blood is
shed, it is red on each side.
At times, people voluntarily go out to fight and other times they are forced to
combat. Often, there are combatants who participate in a war because they
need the resources but they lack the right training or even the understanding
why the war is being fought.
In a conversation, a soldier said, “diplomacy and dialoguing is more effective
and powerful than any weaponry”. Observing armed conflicts as a common
person, as a humanitarian worker and now as a family member of a soldier,
author recommends peace over brutal killings, dignity over torture and
dialoguing over wars.

The Framework
The framework suggests that a close relationship between countries in conflict
and military resourceful countries continues until this day may build the
strength and well being for both countries. Such is the case between the
United States and Japan. As long-standing military allies and increasingly
interdependent economic partners, this two countries have cooperated closely
to build a strong, multifaceted relationship based on democratic values and
interests in world stability and development. The relationship between the two
nations is reinforced by economic, scientific, technical and tourist exchanges.
The traditional cultures and values of the two countries have not changed
much since then but surely perceptions have. This sections discusses the
challenges found in resource poor conflict affected countries.

Challenges
In this section the challenges that war presents before, during and after it is
fought are discussed: changing face of war, effects on economy, loss of place,
impact of civilians, the missing, re-integration of ex-combatants, reconstruction
of communities and cultural interferences.

Changing face of war

The evolution of warfare can be divided into five generations, 1st generation:
large armies, bows, arrows, swords, 2nd generation: gun powder, industrial, civil
war, WW1 and WWII, 3rd generation: Guerrilla warfare, 4th generation:
geographically associated terrorism and 5th generation: cyber terror. Although
there are more international rules for wars now, they are not always followed.
It is way more than the conventional ways of fighting a war. Every so often, the
 3

weapons do not target the combatants on the other side but they target the
common people. The tactics direct at minds of people by spreading fear. The
aim, the center of gravity, the goal of modern war is the population.
To plan, analyze or write about war is very different than to live a war.
Unfortunately, more often now, the planners, analysts and writers of wars,
have never lived a war. In the ancient times, the rulers would lead the war but
now times have changed. Political and religious leaders control the wars now.
The Fourth Geneva Convention outlines the distinction between combatants
and non-combatants but how many times is it honored? And even if one truly
wants to follow the Geneva conventions and restricts the attacks to the
combatants, how does one identify the combatant? In today’s warfare, where a
young pregnant woman is a suicide bomber, where a child carries the gun, how
does one recognize a non-combatant? What happens when one side of
combatants hide where the civilians live and how do you justify killing of
hundreds of innocent women and children because one wants to target a
handful of combatants? Maybe it is time for an additional protocol to address
the rights and duties of those involved in unconventional conflicts.

Effects on Economy
Wars affect people in more than one way. It affects economy both positively
and negatively. On one side, many make big profits on weaponry production,
contracting and construction. Some local people are recruited for these
activities and are able to make money. But these profits do not reach to
majority of the population. For those who make its instruments, war is very
good business indeed, and, while the rest of the economy may be tanking,
things that go “bang” and kill people are on a roll (Hallinan 2003). There is a
myth related to the positive effects of war on the economy because of the
boom in economy after World War II. Some even suggest that capitalism needs
wars, that without them, recession would always lurk on the horizon (Stiglitz
2003).
On the other side, a nation looses money drastically while investing on the
training, equipments, maintenance of the troops and other requirements. In the
war zones, the devastation and loss of infrastructure incurs major damage to
the economy for many years to come. With (a) thousands of people losing their
livelihoods, (b) hundreds of acres of land polluted with mines, and (c) current
and future workers impaired physically and mentally, there is a much bigger
cost to pay than any profit wars may bring to the global economy.

Loss of Place
Psychological and social effects of wars are enormous. Having interviewed
survivors of armed conflicts in South-Asia, the author would like to refer to a
phenomenon called, ‘the loss of place’ that these communities experience. The
term ‘place’ denotes humans’ subjective experiences of, and the meanings
 4

attributed to, the locations, which they inhabit; have strong memories of; and
thrive in (Bott, Cantrill & Myers, 2003). Loss of place implies a loss of
confidence in the norms, networks, and mutual trust in the civil society that is
supposed to protect and facilitate collaborative actions among the citizens and
institutions (Perkins & Long, 2002).
For example, while the author conducted assessment of the psychosocial
support needs in Srinagar, Kashmir, key informants reported that due to the
on-going situation, they do not practice many old cultural activities anymore.
An old woman lamented that before the conflict started the marriage
ceremonies used to be much more exuberant. Family and friends would dance
and celebrate until very late at night but now out of fear, they try to finish the
ceremonies early so that guests can go back to their houses before it is too
late. Most reported that the valley was not as nearly as beautiful as it used to
be before the conflict started. In such communities, if the ongoing violence
does not stop, the coming generations will eventually loose the sense of
beautiful, serene, happy and vibrant Kashmir.
Loss of ‘place’ is true for all the situations where the local population is forced
to migrate to camps, where their houses and infrastructure is destroyed, where
the natural beauty is being shattered, and where the traditional cultural
practices are being lost to history. Instead of making the future generations
strangers to their own history, the world community needs to come together to
initiate a dialogue for a future for our children where they are closer to their
roots and proud history.

Impact on Civilians
The worse effects of wars are on children. Their education and developmental
opportunities are reduced drastically. Confusion and fear that arises from the
violence around them dominates their growth. More often, instead of becoming
teachers, doctors and social workers, these children are placed in a position to
fight their fear of violence with more violence. Little hands play with weapons
when they should be writing in a school notebook. They are left in unthinkable
conditions. Dallaire (2003) describes a scene after the Rwanda genocide about
a child around three years old, “He was caked in dirt, his hair white and matted
with dust, and he was enveloped in cloud of flies, which were greedily attacking
the open sores that covered him.” In the midst of killing in the name of ideals
and beliefs, children are orphaned and trafficked.
Families of combatants on both side live the terrors of war almost as much as
the combatants themselves. It is a constant struggle to keep the faith, to help
the little children to remember their father/mother who has gone to the war or
to stop questioning “why wars, why my family”. Needless to say, instead of all
the questions and fears, these families are proud of their dear ones who are
fighting for the cause that their group or their country believes in. But the
children fail to understand why their father/mother disappears for long period/s
 5

of time. Occasionally, they fail to recognize their own father/mother who return
from the war. How heart wrenching situation it would be if tomorrow you came
back home and your own child treats you like a total stranger?
These families make a big sacrifice for the sake of their country but how many
times are these sacrifices actually for the well-being of their country? This
article does not question the validity of specific wars or advocate for one side
or other but it questions the need for wars versus the well-being of the people
that it is being fought for.
There is another important group of people that live war almost as much as the
combatants do, the humanitarian workers and/or the journalists. How ironic is it
that every so often, a person is killed, abducted or put in state prison because
of his/her desire to serve the people in need or to provide accurate information
to the rest of the world? For example, the staff of the International Committee
of Red Cross died in bomb explosion in Kandahar district in Afghanistan
recently. In many cases, compassion fatigue settles in even after a short
assignment and may last a lifetime.

The missing
In the midst of killing, abduction and imprisonment as ‘prisoners of wars’, many
are lost. All around the world, parents, siblings, spouses and children are
desperately trying to find lost relatives due to armed conflicts, other situations
of violence, internal and international migration. As a result of the armed
conflict in Balkans in 1990s, around 40,000 people went missing (Innovations
Report, 2008). In former Yugoslavian countries like many others, countless
families are still waiting for their loved ones to return. They are still struggling
to know the fate of their dear ones. Dead bodies were buried in mass graves
without proper identifications and many graves were dug in order to trace the
missing persons. Every time a grave is dug in the region, the family of missing
experiences emotions that range from fear to hope. Until these families are
able to find out the fate of their missing relatives, they will not be able to put
closure to the grieving process and will not be able to move on in life.
Are wars really worth of putting innumerable innocent people in a situation
where they are stuck, where parents, wives and children do not know whether
to mourn for their dear one or to wait for them? Can we, as the human race,
pledge that we will stop punishing millions of innocent people by opting for
more creative problem solving rather than killing and destroying?

Re-integration of ex-combatants
The worst residue of the wars remains in the minds of ex-combatants. Once the
combatants cease to fight and come back home, there begins a new struggle
for them, their families and the communities. People back home falsely expect
the combatants to forget the memories of the war, the memories of
devastation, pain, fear, brutality and killing. It sounds contradictory but many
 6

soldiers carry feelings of guilt of killing fellow human beings even though they
were considered enemies. “Studies have shown that the attempt by society
and soldiers to banish war memories is detrimental to the healing of ex-
combatants” (Mogapi 2004). Therefore, it is essential to provide ex-combatants
safe space to express their feelings in a non-judgmental environment. They
should be supported but not forced to talk and in no way be stigmatized.
Families back home must be prepared to meet this new person who has
learned lessons of life, which are nearly impossible to learn in comforts of
home.
In certain contexts, there are state run comprehensive programs for re-
integration of soldiers and in many countries they do not have such programs.
There are also several non-profit organizations around the world that work
tirelessly to ensure smooth integration of ex-combatants in their communities.
Despite the efforts, reports suggest that there is an increase in the suicide rate
amongst soldiers in countries such as the United States. It is a collective
responsibility of all in the respective societies to assist the soldiers to have a
smooth transition from the world of violence to the world of peace, which is
their right, not a luxury.

Reconstruction of communities
Once the combat is finished and combatants leave the scenario (sometimes
temporarily), there remains destruction, devastation and ruins. Reconstruction
of communities after a war includes not only rebuilding of the infrastructure but
also restoration of the shattered psychosocial fabric. This task becomes even
more difficult if the reconstruction work is going on in midst of a war. Where an
insurgency exists, the more common scenario, the population will be pulled by
two competing forces and the one that shows respect and understanding will
have a head start (Therriault & Wulf 2006). It is crucial for the humanitarian
workers and other nation building groups to gain the trust of the people that
they are serving. Building trust is easier when there is (a) effective
communication (use of local colloquial language and metaphors) between
communities and outsiders, (b) assistance is provided with dignity, (c)
assistance is culturally appropriate, (d) local communities actively participate
in the planning and implementing the reconstruction activities and (e) there is
a clear exit strategy for the outsiders and the local population is aware and
convinced of it. If local leaders are trained to facilitate the reconstruction
activities with the local population, it takes less effort to reach common goals.
During the 2004 South-Asian tsunami, the author worked with several
communities in Sri Lanka. At times, the communities did not want to work
together because of religion, ethnicity or other historical differences, which
hindered their recovery process. Therefore, the author and her team identified
common grounds to bring the conflicting communities together to facilitate
their recovery process, by including the community members from the two
 7

communities. In the beginning of the negotiations, both communities stressed

on the differences but as we spent more time and emphasized on the shared
needs, they began to identify some common ground.

Cultural Interferences
To be able to find common grounds, it is essential to recognize and go beyond
the cultural nuances. All people view the events of life through their own
cultural filters. These filters are the result of the values, attitudes, and beliefs
that dominate the culture in which they live (VanOtten 2005). These cultural
filters can prevent people to be tolerant towards the cultural practices of
others. Sometimes our culture, our beliefs make us suspicious towards the
people who do not have similar culture and beliefs. Instead of trying to
appreciate where they are coming from, we form a prejudice based on our own
fears, experiences and cultural filters. Instead of taking time to clarify our point
of view in a way that others understand, many times we loose our patience and
aggress. History witnesses that, at times, years after the war, the two
combating groups became friends and realized that the other warring party
was not so evil after all. Sometimes, it is too late though.
For example, one of the worst warfare in the history of the world was between
Japan and the United States. After the Japanese attacked on the naval base at
Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, in 1941 and the US horrendous revenge in 1945 of the
atomic bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki and the firebombing of Tokyo, the
two countries shared emotions of hatred and animosity. But eventually under
the Allied control, as the reforms took place in Japan, MacArthur gradually
shifted political control over to the Japanese culminating in the 1952 Treaty of
San Francisco which officially ended the occupation. (Countrystudies.us)
This framework was the beginning of a close relationship between both
countries that continues until this day. As long-standing military allies and
increasingly interdependent economic partners, Japan and the United States
cooperated closely to build a strong, multifaceted relationship based on
democratic values and interests in world stability and development. The
relationship between the two nations is reinforced by economic, scientific,
technical and tourist exchanges. The traditional cultures and values of the two
countries have not changed much since then but surely the perceptions have.
If it is possible today, it was possible then and is possible in other contexts too.

Way Forward
When as adults, when we see our child in a fist fight with another child over
something, almost of all of us try to intervene and help them understand that
probably fist fight was the not the most appropriate solution to whatever the
situation was. At the same time, when we look at our mutual problems, which
are more complex, we tend to forget to practice what we preach. From time to
time we, intelligent and mature adults, fail to handle our problems,
 8

disagreements and conflicts in the most appropriate way. And like the two
fighting kids, try to blame the other for provoking another. Can we as
Christians, Muslims, Jews, Hindus, Buddhists and others or as Sri Lankans,
Americans, Indians, Serbians, Cubans, Germans, Israelites and others honestly
say that nothing could have and/or can in future prevent the bloodshed of our
fellow human beings? As a way of moving forward, this section discusses: cost
benefit analysis, finding common grounds and shared vision.

Cost-benefit analysis
The paper recommends to those who advocate that wars will lead to some kind
of well being to their specific countries and/groups to analyze the potential
benefits of any war against the cost being paid. Cost of the current wars
around the world is (a) immeasurable resources, (b) hundreds of thousands of
lives (c) physical, psychological and social wounds, (d) destruction and
devastation in affected areas, (e) future adverse effects of wars such as
unexploded ordnances and finally (f) increased hatred, which may lead to
several other wars. What benefits are worth of this price? Can an ideology be
truthfully promoted at this cost?
For the sake of the benefits of the future generations, for the ideals one is
proud of and for the legacy one wants to leave, to rethink is not too much to
ask for.

Finding Common Grounds

Since the cultural filters are very different from each other, there will be
conflicts but we need to change the ways of conflict resolution. Honesty is
likely to pay for itself in that first contact; polite education of the other party
can only benefit in the long term. However, it is a two way street. Establishing
the boundaries of our Allies’ and our own cultural and legal characteristics will
only come with first showing respect for the local boundaries in customs and
culture (Therriault & Wulf 2006).
When we begin to look beyond our cultural filters and linguistic interferences,
deep inside all societies advocate for forgiveness, peace and love. For example
the word jihad, which is known around the world but has different meanings
and connotations to different people. ‘Jihad’, which literally means striving and
generally occurs as part of the expression jihad fi sabil illah, striving in the path
of God (Streusand & Tunnell IV 2006). If to be a ‘Jihadi’ means striving in the
path of God, every religious person is a Jihadi, regardless of religion or
nationality. And if Jihad is in the path of God, then every true Jihadi will go
towards love and forgiveness because God is forgiving and loving.
The holy Quran says, “In the name of Allah, the Merciful, the Compassionate”.
Jesus was not advocating for revenge and hatred when he said, “Whoever hits
you on the cheek, offer him the other also; and whoever takes away your coat,
do not withhold your shirt from him either”. The Dalai Lama posits love and
 9

compassion are necessities, not luxuries. Without them humanity cannot

survive. Buddha said, “Hatred does not cease by hatred, but only by love; this
is the eternal rule. Rabbi Menachem Mendle said, “Our only way out is to learn
compassion without cause. To care for each other simply because that ‘other’
exists”. Mahatma Gandhi objected to violence because when it appears to do
good, the good is only temporary; the evil it does is permanent.
We cannot to start a process of coming together until we forgive, accept and
empathize with each other. It would be easier to find common grounds if we
look at shared needs. In order to find common grounds we need to (a) refine
and use our diplomatic skills more than ever, (b) negotiate while respecting
each other’s leadership (c) utilize a collaborative process to convince each
other with tolerance, (d) prepare to be flexible and (e) where agreeing is not
possible, agree to disagree deferentially.
Assiduous dialoguing is essential to reach a mutually acceptable pact for
parties involved. The focus of such process must be the ‘issues’ and not groups
of human beings. Nonetheless, agreements are sustainable only if they are
understood and acceptable at the grassroots. A bottom-up approach is
recommended to set the framework for negotiations and once the agreements
are reached comprehensive top down methods are required to ensure that a
common understanding and commitment is attained at all levels of the
relevant factions.

Shared Vision
Let’s take a moment to visualize that all the resources, power and wisdom that
is being spent on wars around the world is diverted to feeding the hungry,
providing shelters to the homeless, giving appropriate health care to the sick
and bringing smiles to faces covered with dirt and wet with tears. The author
recognizes that no matter how beautiful this vision is, it not practical and
probably cannot be realized in a short span of time.
As responsible citizens of the world we must try to move towards this vision.
Especially, now, when many players in the world are equipped with Nuclear
weapons. We cannot continue to risk our future. Recently, a young graphic
designer in a conversation expressed his fear about a potential nuclear war. He
said, “If the world leaders do not learn to negotiate and there is a nuclear war,
the world would go back to stone age”. His fear is not based on any research
but is important because it represents the fear and mistrust of millions of youth
around the world on their leaders.
In today’s age of globalization, where there is much greater interdependence
between states, it is the best time ever to develop a shared vision. Whether
rich or poor states, developed, developing or under-developed countries, all
hold overlapping dreams that can constitute a shared vision, such as (a)
Economic prosperity and international trade opportunities, (b) Freedom to
 10

serve God according to local traditions, (c) Opportunities for optimum growth
and development for children, and (d) Well being, respect and independence. It
might be difficult and painstaking but it can be done.

Case Study: Afghanistan War

This case study illustrates the ‘how’ of the framework discussed in the paper.
The author recognizes that in complex state of affairs in Afghanistan, merely
peaceful negotiations and restoration activities may not present a
comprehensive answer and other military and political tactics are needed for a
long-term solution. Having said that, greater understanding for cultural
interferences would enhance the mutual tolerance and pave the way for
building a strong nation that inspires global peace. In addition, some roots of
this war are connected to history prior this war and other international
conflicts, the case study focuses on issues related to Afghanistan only and
looks at conflict resolution based on the ‘here and now’.

Current Situation
For eight years, the NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization) forces are
assisting the Afghan population to fight against the AL Qaeda and the Taliban
forces and strengthen the democracy in the nation. According to President
Obama, the initial goal was to dismantle, disrupt and destroy Al Qaeda and
capture Osama Bin Laden because of whom 3,000 Americans were killed on
September 11 2001. The positive impact of the foreign presence is the
rebuilding and development of the nation through which the NATO forces aim
to win the hearts and minds of people.
Afghanistan constitutes of variety of ethnic groups, i.e. Pashtun 42%, Tajik
27%, Hazara 9%, Uzbek 9%, Aimak 4%, Turkmen 3%, Baloch 2%, other 4% who
mainly speak ‘Pashtu’ and Afghan Persian and are mainly Sunni Muslims. The
Afghan population has experienced war for hundreds of years. Sometimes, it is
war with the invaders like British or Russians and at times it is conflict between
the local tribes. In addition to the armed conflicts, Afghanistan supplies 90% of
the opium to the world, where only a handful people enjoy the big profit. Some
Afghan products like shawls and carpets have reached the international market
but need more promotion in order to benefit the local people. Consequently,
the country is one of the poorest in the world, the literacy level is very low and
the nation is still pretty much divided on based on tribes.

Challenges
• Lack of clarity amongst the target population: Even though, the NATO
forces are assisting the local population against the Taliban forces,
Taliban also includes the local people. On one hand, there are civilians
 11

who want to get rid of the Taliban coerce, on the other hand some
civilians provide shelter and critical information to Taliban that has grave
results on NATO mission. This complicates the situation for the NATO
forces and even though, they do not target non-combatants,
unfortunately innocent people die due to their attacks, but all
considerations are taken to avoid this at all cost (anonymous source).
Every time there is collateral damage, there is a negative impact on
relationship NATO forces are building with the local civilians.

• Cross-cultural interferences: General McChrystal (2009) says in his

report, “Afghan’s social, political, economic and cultural affairs are
complex and poorly understood”. If the educated and well-trained
officers feel that way, how much more must be the ignorance of the local
population towards the perceived intruders who look different and talk a
different language. It has been a huge challenge for the NATO personnel
to build trust at the community level because most of them do not speak
the local language and lack understanding of local culture and norms.
For the same reasons it is not easy for the willing Taliban members to
negotiate with NATO forces. For the local population, it is much more
convincing when somebody talks to them in their own language, refers
from Holy Quran and looks and dresses like them.

• Depleting resources: As every day goes by, more human lives, material
resources and time are lost on both sides. On one hand, international aid
assists in rebuilding the infrastructure and on the other hand war causes
more damage. United States is the biggest funder for the NATO
operation in Afghanistan. As per Belasco (2009), approximately 20% of
the total funding for military purposes is allocated to Operation Enduring
Freedom (OEF) in Afghanistan. Belasco further states, “In case of
Afghanistan, spending rates are growing for operations because of rising
troop levels, increasing hostilities, and more spending to upgrade Afghan
Security forces”. In the midst of the on-going recession, allocating more
funding for war can be challenging for any nation.

• Unclear priorities: In midst of this war, there are four main groups (a)
NATO forces, (b) Combatants from the other side (mainly Taliban and Al
Qaeda), (c) the national government and (d) the local communities and
their leaders. Ideally, the ‘a’, ‘c’ and ‘d’ should have common goals and
priorities but it seems that is not so. President Karzai wants support for
development of his country and security for his countrymen but his own
government’s credibility is questioned by many in Afghanistan and
internationally. Fear of Taliban and profits of opium trade also influence
the loyalty amongst the local population.
 12

• Lack of uniform structure: Afghanistan has strong leadership at the

ground level amongst the tribes but leadership at national level needs
further strengthening. Therefore, each village has to be dealt with
separately as one government unit to reach an agreement. In different
areas, people speak different languages have different cultural
frameworks and the terrain and climate may differ as well. Diversity in
the country further makes the work of NATO forces more challenging.

Way Forward
In his first address at the United Nation General Assembly in September 2009,
President Obama articulated, “The time has come to realize that the old habits,
the old arguments, are irrelevant to the challenges faced by our people. They
lead nations to act in opposition to the very goals that they claim to pursue—
and to vote, often in this body, against the interests of their own people. They
build up walls between us and the future that our people seek, and the time
has come for those walls to come down. Together, we must build new
coalitions that bridge old divides—coalitions of different faiths and creeds; of
north and south, east, west, black, white, and brown”.
Looking at the history of Afghanistan and its people’s involvement in armed
conflicts, there is no military solution to this problem. This is the best time for
the diplomatic approach in the Afghanistan war context. The current
leadership, at least on the NATO side, recognizes the importance of
negotiations and dialoguing. Salient points in the NATO commander’s report
include (a) more troops are required in order to protect the civilians, (b)
offering them (willing insurgents) a way out with reasonable incentives to stop
fighting and return to normalcy, (c) recommendation for the troops to socialize
with local population more to enhance mutual understanding, (d) involvement
of more humanitarian workers in the nation building process and (e) target the
corruption in the government and the violent insurgents equally and thus
winning the confidence of the local population.
The different sects of insurgents must be encouraged to spell out their goals to
the local population so that negotiations can be planned and carried out in an
effective manner. If, at least, the liberal factions of the insurgents reciprocate
to this process, it will be a win-win situation for both sides. The ‘issues’ or the
‘threats to the well-being’ of the population must be target of this war and not
the human beings.

Cost Benefit Analysis

For almost a decade, billions of dollars, priceless lives of NATO soldiers and
local people are lost. There are long term mental health and psychosocial
issues for combatants, local civilians and the families of the combatants (NATO
personnel as well as the insurgents) back home, destruction of already scarce
infrastructure in the country, further destabilization in Pakistan, compromise
 13

with the image of USA internationally (US being the biggest funder to the NATO
efforts in Afghanistan). Time is another important resource that is being lost
everyday there is no resolution to the situation.
McChrystal (2009) rightly points out in his report that more military resources
are needed but to protect the civilians and not to kill. If the Afghanistan mission
does not focus on peaceful negotiations as the main conflict resolution option,
the war might (a) go on for a long time, (b) intensify the conflict itself and (c)
spread in larger geographical areas. Whereas, if a agreement is reached
between the primary stakeholders, the resources can be geared towards
rebuilding communities that will gain the trust of the local people. Once there is
a sense of ownership amongst the indigenous population for the mission, (a)
local people too are accountable for rebuilding efforts, (b) re-building efforts
can be carried out more efficiently, (c) sustainability of projects is enhanced
and (d) local population will be actively engaged in the mission efforts rather
than supporting the insurgents.

Finding Common Grounds

a) A modern version of this “work with the tribes” approach is still the
best answer (Ignatius 2009). In order to find common grounds, it is
crucial to spend substantial time and energy with the local population
and trying to understand their priorities such as meeting their basic
needs and ensuring safety for their dear ones, which also coincides
with the NATO goals. People conducting these meetings must be
familiar not only with the language but the with the local metaphors,
culture and priorities. At the same time, they should be able to
convey the goals of NATO forces and their exit strategy. These teams
must have representation for the minority groups in the communities
such as women, elderly or other under-represented groups.

b) To make the Afghan leaders including the Taliban leaders more

receptive at the international forum, it is important for the Afghani
people to take the lead in decision making at the ground level. For
example, for construction of a school building, the local people should
be the one deciding the timing and site of the construction, style of
education (co-education or separate schooling for girls and boys) and
sustainability strategy for the project. While the local population sits
in the driving seat, the NATO forces can facilitate the process.

c) Good future for children is a key priority for any nation and education
is one of the ways of ensuring it. Through education and vocational
skills, the new generation will have more options to take care of their
basic needs and well-being of their families. If the Afghani children
receive good education right from the beginning and are grounded in
the values of peace and international harmony, the probability of
 14

them joining the insurgency is reduced. Increased portions of

international resources (both in terms of money and expertise) must
be spent on schooling and edification of children and youth of the
country in order to shrink the influence of the insurgents. It is
important to recognize that children are the best conduits of
information back home. In terms of education, it is important to not
only to focus on the primary school system but also improve the
overall literacy by improving the adult education as well.

d) Western consumers love hand made artifacts such as carved wooden

furniture, beautifully embroidered ‘Pashmina’ shawls, and the classy
Carpets. Afghani people have a natural flair for elegant artifacts and
if encouraged through economic remuneration, it will (a) boost their
economy, (b) reduce the drug trade and (c) meet the demands of the
western consumers.

e) Because of the traditional tribal system and constant conflicts in the

country, it has not been able to develop an effective administrative
system and therefore, has not been able to gain the trust of its
people. According to reports, corruption is an integral part of the
government to point that the correction centers have now become
the operation centers for the insurgents. Unless local government is
equipped to govern their people in a way that the local population is
satisfied and their ends meet, it maybe a little challenging for the
NATO forces to exit successfully. Therefore, in addition to the
capacity building of local security forces, it would be beneficial to
conduct communication, management and administrative programs.

f) Ambassador Said T. Jawad, as quoted by Slaikeu (2009), points out,

there are three distinct ideological groups within the Taliban, only
one of which (the “capital T” leaders are affiliated with al Qaeda) is
“irreconcilable and will not rest until their main objectives of
eliminating the West and its allies are met”. This suggests, that there
are factions of Taliban who would be ready to talk. Gen. McChrystal
recommends an option to the insurgents to give up fighting and come
back to normalcy, where livelihood and protection may be provided.
Re-integration of soldiers, if implemented cautiously, would benefit all
sides, (a) for the NATO forces and the Afghan government, there will
be a reduction in the number of insurgents, (b) insurgents will be
reunited with their families and will be able to lead a normal life and
(c) once the insurgency is reduced, way for development and
progress in the nation will be strengthened. Re-integration of ex-
combatants would require strong commitment from all sides to
prevent another disaster.
 15

g) All sides are praying to God for victory. So, whose side is God after
all? When human beings decide to kill innocent people, God is on the
sad side! Spirituality is common between the leading NATO nations,
civilian population and the Taliban. Despite religious differences
between the warring parties, there are similarities as well, one of
which is that all believe in one almighty God who is most merciful and
loving. Religious leaders can formulate five points (not very difficult)
that are common to all and direct towards the desired goals. This
Holy quest will inspire this generation to God who represents
forgiveness, tolerance and love.

Adopting A Shared Vision

A shared vision must be defined based on mutual interests, shared needs and
common goals. To define such a vision, all the parties need to be au fait with
each other’s colloquial speech. The international community, especially, the
leaders need to invest significantly to understand the cultural filters as they
make major decisions that affect population in diverse contexts.
In this context, if the Afghan leaders, NATO leaders and the Taliban leaders
decide to come together to win a peaceful future for their people, they must
learn to see through each other’s cultural filters, they must speak in a tongue
that all the ears involved comprehend. Two major religions involved in this case
are Christianity and Islam. According to both, God is a forgiving God. Both the
NATO countries and Afghanistan want education, health care and economic
prosperity for their respective countries. With rising terrorism, all the
stakeholders involved want peace and security in their regions. Therefore, a
share vision can be formulated based on forgiveness and acceptance that
ensures peace and security through education, health care and economic well-
being.
Once successful negotiations are made with few groups of insurgents and they
receive positive reinforcement for the same, it will encourage others to do the
same. This process will require substantial amount of learning about the
insurgents and their goals, inclusion of local elders to lead the process,
developing a list of options, long-term commitment and another level of
diplomacy.

Summary
This paper addressed the detrimental effects of wars on the combatants, their
families, and communities in the war zone. It relied on qualitative research
methods: (a) key informant interviews and (b) focus groups, two case studies
and (d) personal experience. The paper proposed a three-fold way forward as
an alternative approach for conflict resolution. It emphasized on managing
conflicts by greater appreciation for each other’s culture and focusing on
 16

shared needs to define strategies that enhance the well being of the nations
involved.

Conclusion
It does not matter which side wins the war in the end, it is the civilians involved
and the families of the combatants who lose. Conflicts are and will remain part
of the ever-dynamic global society but ways of conflict resolution must be
modified in the age of nuclear weapons to prevent irreversible damages. The
on-going wars will not stop until the warring parties cannot negotiate and
understand each other’s positions. Therefore, it is time for the international
community to take concrete steps to towards creative problem solving through
diplomacy and dialoguing.

“He will judge between the nations and will settle disputes for many peoples.
They will beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning
hooks. Nation will not take up sword against nation, nor will they train for
war anymore.” – Isaiah 2:4

References:

Afghanistan Demographic Profile. Index Mundi. 2008. (accesed on September

30, 2009). Available from
http://www.indexmundi.com/afghanistan/demographics_profile.html
Barth E. F. Peace as Disappointment: The Reintegration of Female Soldiers in
Post-Conflict Societies: A Comparative Study from Africa. International Peace
Research Institute (PRIO), 2002. (accessed on September 30, 2009). Available
from http://www.peacewomen.org/resources/DDR/AfricaBarth.html
International Committee of Red Cross (ICRC). Basic Rules of The Geneva
Conventions and Their Additional Protocols (1983). Geneva, Switzerland:
International Committee of Red Cross.
Belasco A. The Cost of Iraq, Afghanistan, and Other Global War on Terror
Operations Since 9/11 CRS Report for Congress. (2009). Washington, D.C.:
Congressional Research Service. U.S. Congress.
Bodden, C., & Hilliker, M. “Community mapping exercises provide enhanced
participant interaction in visioning processes”. Journal of Extension, 1999, 37
(6), 3-8
Federal Reseach Division. Country Studies: Japan. 2008. Country Studies/Area
Handbook Series sponsored by the U.S. Department of the Army. Library of
Congress. (accessed on September 3, 2009). Available from
http://countrystudies.us/japan/132.htm
 17

Dallaire R. Shake Hands With The Devil: The Failure of Humanity in Rwanda.
2003. Arrow Books, United Kingdom.
Dayal, A. Mission Report, International Committee of Red Cross, New Delhi,
India. April, 2008
Hallinan C. War Is Good Business. (2003). Conn Hallinan’s Space Page.
(accessed on September 6, 2009) Available from
http://www.zmag.org/znet/viewArticle/11171
Ignatius D. Britain’s Afghan Wisdom, 2009, The Washington Post (op.ed).
(Accessed on September 29, 2009). Available from
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-
dyn/content/article/2009/09/23/AR2009092303680.html?sub=AR
“Institute for Missing Persons gives hope for peace in the Balkans”. Innovations
Report (2008). (Accessed on September 6, 2009). Available from
http://www.innovations-
report.com/html/reports/social_sciences/institute_missing_persons_hope_
peace_balkans_123345.html
McChrystal S. Commander’s Initial Assessment,2009, NATO International
Security Assistance Force, Afghanistan. (accessed on September 27, 2009).
Available from http://shadowspear.com/vb/showthread.php?22046-
Commander-s-Initial-Assessment-30-August-2009-66-pages-LTG-Stanley-
McChrystal

Mogapi N. Reintegration of soldiers: The missing piece. 2004. Intervention

Journal. (accessed on September 27, 2009) Available from
www.interventionjournal.com/downloads/.../221_225_Mogapi.pdf
Obama B. H. “Obama’s Speech to the United Nations General Assembly”. New
York Times (Septemeber 23, 2009). (accessed on September 24, 2009).
Available from
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/09/24/us/politics/24prexy.text.html?
pagewanted=3&_r=1
Perkins, D. D., & Long, D. A. “Neighborhood sense of community and social
capital: A multi-level analysis”. In A. T. Fisher & C. C. Sonn (Eds.) Psychological
sense of community: Research, applications and implications (pp. 183-203).
New York: Plenum Publishers. 2002
Porter K. “The Relationship of the United States with Japan”. About.com: US
Foreign Policy(Accessed on September 3, 2009). Available from
http://usforeignpolicy.about.com/od/countryprofile1/p/usjapan.htm
 18

Prewitt Diaz, J.O., & Dayal, A. Sense of Place: A Model for Community Based
Psychosocial Support Programs. The Australasian Journal of Disaster and
Trauma Studies. 2008, 1, 12-28.
Restoring Family Links (RFL)/ Family News Service (FNS), “Guidelines for
Psychosocial Support” , New Delhi, India: International Committee of Red
Cross/Indian Red Cross Society, 2008 (Unpublished document)
Rosa B. The Christians and the Problem of War. A few considerations on one of
the most important ethical problems for Christians of all times, Bluffton, Ohio:
Bluffton College 1957.
Slaikeu K. A. Winning the War in Afghanistan: An Oil Spot Plus Strategy for
Coalition Forces. Small Wars Journal. 2009 (accessed on September 30, 2009).
Available from
http://www. smallwarsjournal.com/blog/journal/docs-temp/227-slaikeu.pdf

Stiglitz J. “The Myth of the War Economy Markets Loathe Uncertainty and
Volatility. The Guardian January 22, 2003 (accessed on September 29, 2009)
Available from http://politics.guardian.co.uk/comment/story/0,9115
Streusand, D.E. & Tunnell IV H.D. Choosing Words Carefully: Language to Help
Fight Islamic Terorism. Military Intelligence PB 34-06-2, 2006, 32, 2, 2.
(accessed on September 30, 2009). Available from
http://www.fas.org/irp/agency/army/mipb/2006_01.pdf
Therriault S. & Wulf R. Cultural Awareness or If the Shoe Does Not Fit . Military
Intelligence PB 34-06-2, 2006, 32, 2, 6. (accessed on September 30, 2009).
Available from http://www.fas.org/irp/agency/army/mipb/2006_01.pdf
VanOtten, G.A. Culture Matters Military Intelligence PB 34-05-1. 2005, 31, 1, 1.
(accessed on September 30, 2009). Available from
http://www.fas.org/irp/agency/army/mipb/2005_01.pdf