Paving the Path to Peace: Unpacking Civil Society’s Role in Peacebuilding in Colombia through Rodeemos el Diálogo Case

Abstract

This dissertation analyses the contribution of civil society to peacebuilding in Colombia, focusing on the case study of Rodeemos el Diálogo (ReD). Employing a qualitative method with a deductive approach, including interviews and analysis of organisational experiences, the research investigates ReD's local, national, and international peacebuilding strategies, considering different conflict phases and contextual factors. By utilising the comprehensive conceptual framework of Thania Paffenholz and Christoph Spurk about the seven functions of civil society in peacebuilding, this study validates and emphasises the relevance and effectiveness of these functions. It also reveals correlations and interdependencies that have yet to be addressed in the literature.

The findings demonstrate that ReD's initiatives play a vital and positive role in peacebuilding in Colombia. The organisation prioritises monitoring, advocacy, socialisation, and social cohesion over facilitation, protection, and service delivery. The functions are found to be interdependent, with additional relationships identified beyond the conceptual framework. The effectiveness of these functions varies based on geographical level, contextual factors, and conflict phases.

This research contributes to human rights and sustainable peacebuilding by providing insights for civil society organisations to achieve a positive impact. It is relevant for internal and external actors working on peace-related issues, as it clarifies and validates conclusions drawn in prior studies. Furthermore, it adds to the existing literature by reinforcing the approach to researching the role of civil society at local, national, and international levels.

Keywords: peacebuilding, civil society, Colombia, peace, human rights.