Dialogue is important as humans are in constant communication with one another. As the world currently witnesses violent conflicts on a daily basis, how we respond to conflicting views in communication is an infinitely important matter for human coexistence. We have the possibility to respond with fear, hatred and violence or with open-mindedness, acceptance and understanding. I ask; Is dialogue a peacebuilding tool whose potential has not been exploited? This thesis will discuss dialogue as one form of communication and as a tool in peacebuilding. I take a critical view of the use of dialogue to reach other goals than understanding. I have chosen to collect data from experts on dialogue in Norway and from the United Nations to research the topic of dialogue as a tool in peacebuilding. The research project’s relevance for peace studies is its contribution to literature on dialogue, specifically dialogue in relation to peacebuilding. Further, the study is relevant for peace studies as it addresses how the United Nations work with intercultural and inter-religious dialogue in peacebuilding.
Master’s thesis by Irene Incerti-Théry
104 pages
UiT The Arctic University of Norway (2016)
Available through Munin Open Research Archive