Conclusion

This conclusion summarizes the core findings of our book. The book has explored the dynamics of the recent stagnation of peace processes and the impact of tactical and strategic actions of counter-peace forces. This chapter recaps the typological analysis of three variants of counter-peace and their characterization with specific types of protracted conflicts. Different counter-peace patterns, like the stalemate, limited, and unmitigated counter-peace patterns, are now intertwined with peace and reform processes. The conclusion then briefly reflects on the implications for a developing multi-polar order where local and international peace and reform tools appear ineffective while identifying the rise of counter-peace processes at the heart of unsuccessful peacemaking efforts. It concludes with a few suggestions on where the research agenda on counter-peace might focus in the future.