Normative Biases in Peace Studies: A Critical Examination of the Liberal/Illiberal Peace Concepts

Authors : Cavit Emre Aytekin

Pages : 252-267

Doi:10.21180/iibfdkastamonu.1607013

View : 87 | Download : 49

Publication Date : 2025-06-30

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :This study examines the liberal/illiberal dichotomy in peace studies, highlighting how normative biases embedded within this framework marginalizes alternative approaches to peacebuilding. The liberal peace model has shaped both academic discourse and policy paradigms in peace processes. However, its intellectual and practical hegemony often reduces non-liberal or hybrid frameworks to \\\"illiberal\\\" approaches, portraying them as deficient or unstable. This normative bias simplifies the diversity of conflict resolution efforts and neglects context-specific strategies. The study addresses the question: How does the liberal/illiberal dichotomy limit our understanding of international peace processes, and what conceptual alternatives can foster a more inclusive framework? Using critical analysis and conceptual inquiry, the study proposes a multi-normative approach, informed by distinctions between process- and content-related norms, to better account for the complexity of peace efforts. The discussion underscore the need to move beyond binary framings and embrace inclusive frameworks that reflect the diversity of peacebuilding strategies in varying geopolitical and cultural contexts.
Keywords : Normatif Önyargı, İlliberal Barış, Liberal Barış, Otoriter Çatışma Yönetimi

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