check
Between Peacefulization and Securitization: The Social Construction of Peace | The Leonard Davis Institute

Between Peacefulization and Securitization: The Social Construction of Peace

Between Peacefulization and Securitization: The Social Construction of Peace

Abstract:

Abstract

In recent years, much attention has been given—mostly through the use of the Copenhagen School’s concept of securitization—to the question of how issues are framed as threats to security. In a securitization process, enunciators construct an issue as an existential threat that justifies taking extraordinary measures and policies. However, IR literature is quite silent about a related process I term "peacefulization”—this is when issues or policies are framed and constructed as related to peace. I suggest that recognizing and elaborating on the peacefulization process helps to explain how distinct issues are framed and constructed as related to peace, and how this framing helps or hinders the chances of achieving a stable peace. My aim in this paper is to sketch out a framework to unravel the mechanisms of peacefulization. To this end, I will rely on theextensive literature on securitization and on the solutions that have been suggested to deal with some of its limitations.

Last updated on 01/03/2016