Presentation Information
[1I01]Adaptive Peacebuilding from Below: Citizen Perceptions of Government and Livelihood Conflict in Northern Bahr el Ghazal, South Sudan
*Mitsuaki FURUKAWA1 (1. Dokkyo University)
Keywords:
South Sudan,adaptive peacebuilding,local ownership,governance,National dialogue
This paper examines ‘bottom-up adaptive peacebuilding’ in Awail, North Bahr el Ghazal State, South Sudan, based on residents' perceptions, taking into account the recurring civil wars following South Sudan's independence and the limitations of exogenous liberal peacebuilding.The analysis utilised a 2018 household survey (644 households, 632 responses) and a 2017 national dialogue survey report conducted in North Bahr el Ghazal. The results revealed strong dissatisfaction with the government (low ratings in areas such as job creation, health and education, water supply and sanitation, and electricity), severe food shortages and vulnerabilities in access to sanitation and healthcare, and the continued significant role of traditional chiefs in local life.In terms of livelihood assets, land and water were particularly identified as conflict drivers, with notable friction observed between ethnic groups and neighbouring countries.The national dialogue highlighted dissatisfaction with corruption and centralisation, as well as demands for the inclusion of young people, women, and persons with disabilities. As future responses, the report recommended prioritising peacebuilding that emphasises local participation, learning, and adaptation; transparency and anti-corruption; strengthening public services; economic diversification; and promoting dialogue across generations and ethnic groups. Additionally, the report highlighted the need for comparisons with other regions and ethnic groups, as well as long-term evaluations, as challenges for future research.
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