Understanding Peace

This chapter reviews the diverse conceptualisations of peace in Peace Studies, with special attention to the effort to understand ‘positive peace’. It discusses the different perspectives of Peace Studies scholars on how peace can be more just and sustainable, and the difference between liberal and emancipatory perspectives on international and local efforts to achieve peace. The chapter then explores how Peace Studies has recognised the hybridity and adaptability of international and local peace efforts. The conclusion of this chapter provides a summary of key insights and suggests avenues for further research on the meanings of peace.