Negative peace and positive peace are two different approaches to addressing conflict and achieving a state of peaceful coexistence. Negative peace refers to the absence of violence or conflict, while positive peace goes beyond the absence of violence to address the underlying structures and systems that contribute to violence and conflict.
Negative peace is often the primary focus of peacekeeping efforts, as it involves stopping violence and preventing the escalation of conflict. This can be achieved through the use of military force, diplomacy, or other means of intervention. While negative peace is necessary for creating a stable and safe environment, it does not address the root causes of conflict and can be fragile, as it does not address the underlying issues that contribute to violence.
Positive peace, on the other hand, aims to create a deeper and more lasting form of peace by addressing the root causes of conflict. This includes addressing issues such as inequality, injustice, and discrimination, as well as promoting dialogue, reconciliation, and cooperation. Positive peace requires a long-term commitment to building trust and understanding between different groups and addressing the structural issues that contribute to violence and conflict.
While negative peace is necessary for creating a stable and safe environment, it is ultimately positive peace that leads to a more sustainable and lasting resolution to conflict. Positive peace requires a proactive approach to addressing the underlying issues that contribute to violence and conflict, rather than simply reacting to outbreaks of violence as they occur. By addressing the root causes of conflict, we can create a more just and equitable society that is better able to handle the inevitable challenges and differences that arise.
In conclusion, negative peace and positive peace are two different approaches to addressing conflict and achieving a state of peaceful coexistence. While negative peace focuses on stopping violence and preventing the escalation of conflict, positive peace goes beyond this by addressing the underlying issues that contribute to violence and conflict. By taking a proactive approach to addressing the root causes of conflict, we can create a more sustainable and lasting form of peace.