Indigenous Conflict Resolution Frameworks: Evaluating Restorative Efficacy in Post-Conflict Communities

Global Journal of Peace and Conflict Studies | Vol. 6, No. 8, August 2015 | pp. 496–504

DOI: 10.46882/2015/GJPCS/000077

Article Type: Original Research Paper

Title: Indigenous Conflict Resolution Frameworks: Evaluating Restorative Efficacy in Post-Conflict Communities

Names of Authors: Agnes Arach¹, Chinedu Okechukwu²

Authors’ Affiliations: ¹Faculty of Peace and Strategic Studies, Gulu University, Gulu, Uganda; ²Department of Political Science, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria

Abstract: Abstract: Top-down international legal interventions often struggle to foster grassroots community reconciliation in societies recovering from prolonged, deeply rooted civil conflicts. This study evaluates the structural efficacy of localized restorative justice frameworks practiced across post-conflict communities in East and West Africa. Using a qualitative case study design, we conducted 34 semi-structured interviews with traditional elders, conflict survivors, and civil society leaders, alongside 8 focus group discussions. The thematic analysis shows that indigenous frameworks succeeded in resolving local community disputes where formal international courts lacked accessibility and cultural legitimacy. The research indicates that communities utilizing traditional reconciliation rituals reported 40% higher baseline social integration scores among ex-combatants than communities relying solely on formal legal courts. However, structural challenges remain, including the historical marginalization of youth perspectives and a lack of legal integration within the national judiciary. The study demonstrates that traditional justice systems offer powerful mechanisms for community-level healing, but require formal legal recognition to prevent institutional fragmentation.

Keywords: Indigenous Justice, Restorative Frameworks, Community Reconciliation, Cultural Legitimacy, Ex-Combatant Reintegration, Peacebuilding Rituals, Hybrid Governance

Manuscript Timeline: Received: March 15, 2015; Revised: May 20, 2015; Accepted: June 19, 2015; Published: August 05, 2015

Citation: Arach, A., & Okechukwu, C. (2015). Indigenous Conflict Resolution Frameworks: Evaluating Restorative Efficacy in Post-Conflict Communities. Global Journal of Peace and Conflict Studies, 6(8), 496–504. DOI: 10.46882/2015/GJPCS/000077

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