The Importance of Trust in Achieving Positive Peace

Everyday interactions in society necessitate a certain level of trust between people, yet the reality of societies characterized by historical injustice and inequalities means that a lack of trust is more likely to be expected in such contexts (Bar-Tal, 2007; Webel & Galtung, 2007). Thus, although a minimal level of trust between people may signify the absence of violent conflict and a relative level of coexistence of social groups, it can also create the illusion of deeper trust between group members and a peaceful society. Galtung’s (1969) crucial work on peace emphasizes a recognition of both negative and positive peace. Accordingly, establishing and maintaining trust is integral to the achievement of positive peace, evident in a growing body of literature focusing on the role that trust plays in promoting peace and reconciliation (Alon & Bar-Tal, 2016; Kelman, 2005). This chapter briefly examines the conceptualization of trust and how it represents a signpost for establishing positive peace characterized by integration and social justice. It also considers some of the barriers to building trust in post-conflict societies, and examines more closely key underlying mechanisms and outcomes of trust in the literature on peacebuilding, providing examples from key conflict contexts such as Northern Ireland. Finally, the interplay of procedural justice and trust in the pursuit of positive peace is considered – one that is characterized not only by absence of violence but by integration and social justice.