The Evolution of the Concept of Peace from the Perspective of Constructivism: From Negative Peace to Sustainable Peace

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 Ph.D Student, Department of International Relations, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.

2 Professor, Department of International Relations, School of International Relations, Tehran, Iran.

10.22059/jpq.2026.396028.1008370

Abstract

Objective
This study critically explores and expands the concept of peace, challenging its traditional reductionist interpretations in international relations. It focuses specifically on the transition from negative peace—the mere absence of violence—to a more holistic understanding of sustainable peace. Using constructivist theory, the study develops a comprehensive theoretical framework that views peace as a dynamic and multifaceted process. This framework emphasizes the integration of global norms with local capacities while exploring the central role of collective identity formation and social constructs in shaping peacebuilding.
 
Introduction
In international relations, the predominant conceptualization of peace has frequently been reduced to the mere absence of violence, commonly referred to as negative peace. This perspective, however, is overly simplistic, failing to address the profound structural roots of conflict, such as inequality, injustice, and deficiencies within democratic institutions. Employing constructivist theory, this paper critiques and expands this limited understanding by introducing the notion of hybrid peace. This paradigm transcends the limitations of both negative and positive peace, emphasizing the integration of global norms—such as democracy and human rights—with local cultural capacities to achieve sustainable peace, which is understood as an ongoing and dynamic process.
 
Methodology
This research employs a qualitative and analytical approach, combining a review of theoretical literature with case studies and document analysis. It examines pivotal events such as the Iran-Iraq War and the collapse of apartheid in South Africa to illustrate the complex transition from negative to positive peace. The study also analyzes international policies and UN peacekeeping efforts, highlighting their role in shaping and sustaining peacebuilding processes. By integrating these case studies and documents through a constructivist lens, the research provides insights into the multifaceted nature of peace.
 
Results and Discussion
The study's findings indicate that sustainable peace is not a static achievement, but a dynamic and evolving process. Negative peace, which halts direct violence, often fails to address underlying causes of conflict, such as structural inequality and social injustice. This is illustrated through case studies examining the Iran-Iraq War and the collapse of apartheid in South Africa. For example, the cessation of hostilities in the Iran-Iraq War marked negative peace, yet unresolved territorial disputes and national identity issues demanded more than an end to violence. Similarly, the collapse of apartheid in South Africa brought negative peace, but persistent racial and economic inequalities necessitated a shift to positive peace. This transition requires establishing positive peace, which fosters social justice, equality, and democratic governance. However, positive peace remains insufficient if it does not adapt to evolving societal needs. In post-apartheid South Africa, for example, ongoing racial and economic disparities hindered sustainable peace despite democratic governance. Transitioning to positive peace required reconciliation efforts, the promotion of justice, and a direct address of apartheid’s legacies ingrained within social and economic structures. This research emphasizes that sustainable peace constitutes an ongoing process, requiring continuous efforts to improve social structures, promote inclusive governance, and uphold justice. Crucially, sustainable peace cannot be achieved in isolation or through external imposition. It demands active participation from local communities, alongside dialogue, education, and the development of shared norms and values to foster cooperation and mutual understanding. This principle is exemplified in the contexts of the Iran-Iraq War and apartheid South Africa, where peacebuilding was more effective when local engagement and cultural understanding were prioritized. The hybrid peace model presented in this study integrates global principles with local traditions, offering a more effective framework for post-conflict peacebuilding. By combining international practices, such as democracy promotion and human rights advocacy, with local governance structures and cultural norms, it fosters legitimacy, ownership, and resilience. This ensures peace develops in a way that aligns with local needs and values. This research addresses a significant gap in peace studies by synthesizing negative and positive peace along a continuum. It proposes the hybrid peace model as an intermediary between top-down international interventions and bottom-up local practices. Its originality lies in emphasizing shared norms and collective identity as fundamental components of sustainable peace, thereby presenting a novel constructivist framework not extensively examined in previous studies.
 
Conclusion
This research challenges traditional peacebuilding paradigms by offering a nuanced and dynamic understanding of peace, one that transcends the binary of negative and positive peace. The presented hybrid peace model advocates for an inclusive approach that integrates global norms with local capacities, emphasizing the importance of local participation. The study concludes that sustainable peace is not a fixed endpoint, but an ongoing, transformative process requiring continuous engagement, adaptation, and the active participation of both local communities and international actors.

Keywords

Main Subjects

References

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POLITICAL QUARTERLY
Volume 56, Issue 1
April 2026
Pages 28-1

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  • Receive Date: 26 May 2025
  • Revise Date: 12 September 2025
  • Accept Date: 13 September 2025

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