1.1. What is Conflict?

Conflict refers to a serious disagreement or argument, often a prolonged one. It can occur between individuals, communities, or nations. Conflicts arise due to competition for resources, ideological differences, historical grievances, or perceived injustice.

Conflict is when people disagree strongly about something, and these disagreements can last a long time. It isn't limited to just one person fighting with another; it can happen between groups of people, community factions, or even countries. Conflicts usually happen because people want the same resources or have different beliefs, or because of past events that have caused hurt and anger.

Imagine two siblings fighting over a toy. This conflict might not just be about the toy itself but also about feelings of fairness, ownership, and past disputes over toys. In a broader context, nations might argue over land resources due to historical claims or existing tensions.

• Interpersonal Conflict – Between individuals • Social Conflict – Within societies due to class, race, or religion • Political Conflict – Between governments or political groups • International Conflict – Between countries or alliances

There are different kinds of conflict, categorized based on who is involved or the nature of the disagreement. Interpersonal conflict happens between two individuals, like friends or family. Social conflict can occur in communities, often related to differences in class, race, or religion. Political conflict usually involves tensions between governments or political parties aiming for power. International conflict is larger in scope, involving clashes between countries or groups of countries.

For example, in interpersonal conflict, siblings might argue over chores. Social conflict might look like protests where groups fight for equality. An example of political conflict is when two political parties in a country disagree on laws. International conflict might be illustrated by disputes over borders between neighboring nations.

• Background: Long-standing ethnic tensions between Hutus and Tutsis • Trigger: Assassination of the Rwandan President • Outcome: Approximately 800,000 people killed in 100 days • Resolution Efforts: International tribunals, national reconciliation programs, community justice through Gacaca courts

The Rwandan Genocide is a tragic example of extreme conflict driven by ethnic tensions. Historically, Hutus and Tutsis had disputes over power and resources. The assassination of the President lit the fuse for widespread violence, leading to tragic loss of life and suffering. Efforts to resolve this conflict involved international courts to hold people accountable and community programs to help heal and reconcile differences among the Rwandan people.

Think of a small town where different groups have been at odds for many years, and then a single event causes a huge eruption of violence. Just as in the Rwandan case, after the turmoil settles, efforts must be made to bring the community back together, ensuring everyone can coexist peacefully again.

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