Connections Between Critical Peacebuilding Perspectives and Southern and Liberation Theories

This chapter highlights the intersection between Peace and Conflict Studies (PACS) theories with approaches emerging from the South, such as Southern theory and liberation philosophy. Specifically, how the local turn and the hybrid approach in peacebuilding connect to the critical framework coming from the South is discussed. This reflection calls for a cross-cultural dialogue focusing on marginalized communities and their agencies and proposing liberation philosophy as a meta-language for social movements. Finally, the ways in which PACS scholars are implementing theoretical tools from the South is reflected upon. This reflection is drawn from a deep literature review as well as personal and professional experiences and insights that include the privilege of working and studying in both the South and the North.