Achieving lasting peace is one of the central goals of global politics, yet it remains deeply challenging. In the IB Global Politics course, lasting peace is understood as more than simply ending violence. It requires addressing the root causes of conflict and building political, social, and economic conditions that prevent violence from returning. This makes peace a long-term, multidimensional process rather than a single event.
One essential condition for lasting peace is inclusive political governance. When political systems represent diverse groups fairly and allow meaningful participation, grievances are less likely to escalate into violence. Inclusion builds legitimacy and trust between citizens and the state. Exclusion, repression, or discrimination, by contrast, can undermine peace even after a conflict formally ends.
Justice and accountability are also critical. Societies emerging from conflict must address past abuses to prevent cycles of revenge and resentment. This does not always mean punishment alone; it can include truth-seeking, reconciliation, and institutional reform. In IB Global Politics, justice is closely linked to positive peace because unresolved injustice can destabilise even seemingly peaceful societies.
Economic factors play a major role as well. Development and inequality reduction are essential for sustaining peace. Poverty, unemployment, and unequal access to resources can fuel frustration and make renewed conflict more likely. Inclusive development that improves education, healthcare, and livelihoods strengthens social cohesion and reduces incentives for violence.
Lasting peace also requires addressing structural violence. Ending armed conflict without changing systems that produce inequality, exclusion, or marginalisation leads only to negative peace. Structural reforms—such as improving access to services, reforming discriminatory laws, and redistributing opportunity—help transform the conditions that generate conflict. This highlights the link between peace, justice, and development.
Reconciliation and social healing are equally important. Conflict often fractures societies along ethnic, religious, or political lines. Dialogue, community-level peacebuilding, and education can rebuild trust and shared identity. Without reconciliation, divisions may persist and resurface during times of stress.
International actors can support lasting peace, but local ownership is essential. External support may help with mediation, reconstruction, or security, but peace cannot be imposed from outside. Sustainable peace depends on domestic commitment, institutions, and legitimacy. In IB analysis, peacebuilding is most effective when international and local efforts are aligned.
Finally, lasting peace requires long-term commitment. Peace processes take years or decades, not months. Short-term solutions may stop violence temporarily, but without sustained investment in governance, justice, and development, peace remains fragile.
For IB Global Politics students, strong answers explain that lasting peace is achieved through a combination of inclusion, justice, development, and institutional reform. High-level analysis recognises that peace is not simply the absence of war, but the presence of conditions that make violence unnecessary and unlikely in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is meant by lasting peace?
Lasting peace refers to stable peace that prevents conflict from returning. It includes justice, inclusion, and development. IB students should link it to positive peace.
Why is ending violence not enough to achieve peace?
Because underlying grievances may remain. Without addressing inequality and exclusion, conflict can re-emerge. IB answers should highlight root causes.
How does development contribute to lasting peace?
Development reduces poverty and inequality, which lowers conflict risk. Access to opportunities strengthens stability. IB analysis should link peace and development.
Can international actors create lasting peace?
They can support peace, but cannot impose it. Local ownership and legitimacy are essential. IB answers should emphasise domestic responsibility.
How should this topic be answered in exams?
Students should explain multiple conditions for lasting peace and evaluate their importance. Linking peace to justice and governance strengthens answers. A balanced conclusion leads to higher marks.
