Divided Civil Society in Deeply Divided Societies: Solution Proposals

Long-term peacebuilding policies are needed in order to ensure positive peace in deeply divided societies. In this respect, civil society is presented as a peacebuilding tool that restores social cleavages, reduces inter-ethnic distance and strengthens social integration. However, because of reflecting the political and social divisions in society, it is difficult for civil society in deeply divided societies to play a unifying and reconciliatory role. Since civil society is organized exclusively in such societies, it can also lead to radicalization by strengthening intra-group loyalty besides failing to contribute to inter-community reconciliation. The aim of this study is to discuss how civil society can play a more inclusive and reconciliatory role in deeply divided societies and to propose solutions for exclusive civil society organizations.