Incorporating Peacebuilding into Mine Action Programmes

Abstract

The purpose of this essay is twofold: first, to explore the potential for landmine programmes to have both positive and negative effects on peacebuilding and, second, to provide operating questions and practical suggestions for mine action practitioners trying to incorporate peacebuilding into mines action. The essay will begin by examining the concept of peacebuilding and describing the work of practitioners who have attempted to incorporate peacebuilding into humanitarian aid programmes. The writings of these practitioners provide guidelines for aid programmes that can be transferred to landmine programmes. These authors also caution that aid programmes can reinforce the structures that support war. I think that this danger can extend to landmine programmes as well. This possibility, and its prevention, will be further explored. The final part of this section will explore of the dynamics of peacebuilding and how it can be incorporated into landmine work.