The Role of Art and Literature in Healing, Reconciliation and Peacebuilding

Abstract

This thesis explores the underutilized yet potent role of art and literature in peacebuilding, healing, and reconciliation processes. Utilizing narrative theory as the theoretical framework, the study examines the potential of Art and Literature initiatives in fostering social cohesion and addressing conflict. By integrating narrative theory and various interdisciplinary approaches, this study analyses how different forms of art, including visual arts, music, theatre, and literature, contribute to peacebuilding and reconciliation efforts. Despite their potential, these initiatives are often undervalued and underused due to the lack of a robust impact assessment mechanism. The study highlights the potential of localized art initiatives to engage grassroots communities, thereby fostering empathy and social cohesion. The research highlights that Art and Literature are indeed being employed in peacebuilding efforts, albeit often viewed as “soft” measures, with limited recognition of their effectiveness. To address this gap, the study presents qualitative and quantitative methodological approaches for assessing the impact of Art and Literature initiatives. These approaches require an interdisciplinary approach, incorporating insights from fields such as psychology, sociology, and education. The findings suggest that the underutilization of Art and Literature initiatives stem from the absence of a systematic evaluation framework, making it challenging to measure their effectiveness. The research contributes to the understanding of the role of Art and Literature in Peacebuilding, Healing, and Reconciliation by providing a comprehensive analysis of their potential and the challenges in their implementation. The study findings have significant implications for policymakers, practitioners, and researchers seeking to leverage the power of Art and Literature in conflict resolution and post-conflict reconstruction.