What is the impact of structural violence on conflict resolution?

Structural violence significantly complicates conflict resolution by perpetuating inequality and fostering resentment among disadvantaged groups.

Structural violence refers to a form of violence where social structures or social institutions harm people by preventing them from meeting their basic needs. It is often invisible and built into ubiquitous social structures, normalising the resulting suffering and inequality. This form of violence is not physical but rather psychological and it is embedded in the unequal power relationships that are inherently present in society.

In the context of conflict resolution, structural violence poses a significant challenge. It creates and perpetuates systemic inequalities and injustices, which can breed resentment and hostility among those disadvantaged by these structures. This resentment can, in turn, fuel conflict, making resolution more difficult. For instance, if a particular ethnic or social group is systematically disadvantaged in a society, this can lead to feelings of marginalisation and injustice, which can spark conflict.

Moreover, structural violence can also undermine efforts at conflict resolution by creating power imbalances. Conflict resolution often requires dialogue and negotiation between conflicting parties. However, if one party is structurally disadvantaged, they may not have an equal voice in these negotiations. This can lead to resolutions that further entrench, rather than alleviate, existing inequalities.

Furthermore, structural violence can make conflicts more intractable. Because structural violence is often deeply embedded in societal structures, it can be difficult to identify and address. This can make it harder to resolve conflicts, as the underlying causes of the conflict may not be immediately apparent or easily addressed. For example, a conflict may appear to be about a specific issue, such as land rights, but the underlying cause may be structural inequality in land ownership.

In conclusion, structural violence has a profound impact on conflict resolution. It can fuel conflict, undermine efforts at resolution, and make conflicts more intractable. Therefore, any efforts at conflict resolution must take into account the impact of structural violence and seek to address the underlying inequalities it creates.