The successful implementation of a peace deal between conflicting parties requires following standard steps and stages in the peacebuilding process. One of the key steps to consider is the initial negotiation phase, where parties come together to discuss their grievances and work towards finding common ground. This stage typically involves informal talks, confidence-building measures, and the establishment of trust between the parties. For example, in the peace deal between the Afar and Issa communities, this initial negotiation phase may have involved discussing historical grievances and issues relating to property (towns), territory, return of IDPs and resource scarcity issues that have fueled tensions between the two groups.
The next important step is the formal negotiation process, where parties begin to outline the terms of the peace agreement and work towards a comprehensive settlement. During this stage, key issues such as territory and security are negotiated, and common ground is sought. In the case of the Afar-Issa peace deal, this stage may have involved discussions around land rights and access to scarce resources like water and pasture.
The role of mediators and facilitators is crucial in the negotiation process, as they play a vital role in facilitating dialogue between parties, encouraging compromise, and helping to bridge gaps in positions. In the Afar-Issa peace deal, Abiy Ahmed served as a mediator, bringing both communities together and helping them reach an initial agreement. Mediators help ensure that both parties adhere to the terms of the agreement and facilitate communication to diffuse tensions.
Inclusivity is also important in the negotiation process, as peace deals are more likely to succeed when they involve a broad range of stakeholders, including Regional and Federal governments, Islamic Council, community leaders, women, youth, and civil society organizations. By including diverse voices in the peace process, parties can address a wider range of concerns and ensure that the agreement is comprehensive and inclusive. For example, in the Afar-Issa peace deal, including representatives from both communities as well as other stakeholders may have helped ensure a more sustainable agreement.
Clear and comprehensive agreements are essential to the success of a peace deal, as vague or ambiguous terms can lead to misunderstandings and lack of implementation. Peace deals should address the root causes of conflict and provide a roadmap for moving forward. In the Afar-Issa peace deal, the 11-point agreement outlined clear steps for both communities to follow, addressing issues such as resource scarcity and cultural differences.
Transitional justice mechanisms are important in post-conflict societies to address past grievances and create a sustainable peace. Peace deals should include provisions for accountability, truth-telling, reparations, and reconciliation. For example, in the Afar-Issa peace deal, establishing a truth commission and reparations program may help address human rights abuses committed during the conflict.
The implementation phase of a peace deal is where parties begin to put the terms of the agreement into action. This stage involves delivering on commitments such as human rights protections. In the Afar-Issa peace deal, implementing mechanisms for conflict resolution and support for reconciliation initiatives will be crucial to ensuring the sustainability of the agreement.
International actors can play a significant role in supporting the implementation of peace deals by providing technical assistance, financial support, and diplomatic pressure. In the case of the Afar-Issa peace deal, international actors may provide resources and expertise to help both communities fulfill their commitments and overcome obstacles to peace.
Monitoring and evaluation mechanisms are essential in ensuring the sustainability of peace agreements by tracking progress, identifying areas of concern, and addressing challenges that arise. In the Afar-Issa peace deal, establishing a monitoring and evaluation system will help both communities stay on track and address any issues proactively.
Lastly, ongoing dialogue and reconciliation are crucial in post-conflict societies to ensure lasting peace. Peace deals are not a one-time event but a continuing process that requires continued engagement, trust-building, and communication between parties. In the case of the Afar-Issa peace deal, regular meetings between the elders of the two communities and support for dialogue and reconciliation initiatives will be key to maintaining stability and harmony in the region.
In conclusion, the successful implementation of a peace deal between the Afar and Issa communities requires a comprehensive approach that addresses standard steps and stages, involves an honest mediator, establishes a resilient follow-up mechanism, and considers the universal, historical, and particular aspects of the conflict. By adhering to these principles and learning from the outlined examples, both parties can work towards a sustainable peace that promotes stability and harmony in the region.
