Violence and conflict resolution in non-conflict regions: the case of Lampung, Indonesia

Abstract

This report takes a new approach to analyzing violent conflict in Indonesia. Despite the explanatory power of typologies and theories of conflict, very little serious analytical work of this kind has been done in Indonesia. Little effort has been made to meaningfully differentiate between types of violence and to systematically examine their various causes and manifestations. This report presents a detailed typology of violence in Lampung and explores the psycho-cultural and structural aspects of the conflicts. Such an approach is essential to understanding violence and to intervening constructively. Finally, this report challenges the way in which violence is conceptualized. It argues that there is a tendency to create artificial distinctions and barriers that abrogate responsibility for confronting violence and its tragic implications. Conflict is generally seen either as a human rights or a humanitarian aid issue. The majority of organizations working on violence in Indonesia are either human rights or emergency aid focused.