Positive Peacebuilding:

Abstract: This research investigates the potential for a proactive and preventive model for peacebuilding, diverging from traditional post-conflict approaches. The study questions how peace can be embedded as an `infrastructure` that prevents conflict from arising in the first place. To address this question, the research employs a case study methodology focusing on `Baha’i community building` activities, analyzed through Johan Galtung's theory of positive peace. Positive peace emphasizes removing the roots of violence by realizing social justice, social harmony, and a peaceful culture rather than merely addressing symptoms of conflict.

By utilizing the concepts and foundational elements of positive peace, this study finds that Baha’i community building - including core activities, socio-economic development actions, and participation in public discourse - aligns with positive peace principles and actively implements these elements within a holistic and inclusive framework and measures.

The findings suggest that Baha’i practices not only address immediate post-conflict needs but also work towards preventing conflict through community empowerment and systemic social reform. The findings provide a pathway to developing a framework for proactive peace. This extends current scholarly literature on peacebuilding, which has largely focused on reactive solutions to date. In addition, this study articulates a model that can inform the policy-making of international organizations and government actors focused on proactive and infrastructural peace.

The study manifests the possibility of adopting religious principles and using their followers` methods and experiences in peacebuilding strategies, offering a paradigm shift from reactive to preventive approaches. Through this research, the insights derived from the Baha'i model provide a framework for developing more effective and sustainable peacebuilding methods that address underlying causes of conflict.