Understanding the Many Faces of Power
Stephen and Angela kick off the discussion by unraveling the multifaceted nature of power. They acknowledge the visible aspects, such as political leaders, economic forces, and popular mobilization, which significantly influence our lives. However, they emphasize that power isn’t just what we see but also what remains hidden beneath the surface.

1. The Power of Violence

Violence, while visible, isn’t solely about the act itself. The threat and memory of violence can cast a long shadow over individuals, communities, and entire populations, influencing their actions, decisions, and movements.

2. The Complex Nature of Identity

Structural violence, stemming from discrimination and marginalization, is often invisible to those unaffected by it. Conversely, if your identity brings privilege, it might be challenging to recognize your own empowerment.

Defining Power in Peace Building

To navigate the world of peace building effectively, Stephen and Angela propose a definition of power that serves as a compass for their work. Power, in their view, is the amalgamation of all factors that limit or expand our individual and collective capabilities—how we think, act, and strive for the lives we desire. It’s an unseen force that permeates our relationships and makes it a complex challenge to work with.

The Relevance of Power in Peace Building

The connection between power and peace building becomes evident as Stephen and Angela assert that the individuals most affected by conflict are often those with the least power. Empowering marginalized and disempowered communities is vital for successful peace building initiatives that truly serve the majority.

Transforming Power in Peace Building

Although there isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution, Stephen and Angela share insights from their work in Colombia that highlight the transformation of power.

Angela recounts their experience with peace councils in Colombia, where they empowered participants to have agency in decision-making. They encouraged local ownership of the peace-building process, allowing communities to define their goals, participants, and methods.

Empowering Communities in Colombia

In a specific case, a small town in Colombia named Cauca embarked on a journey of self-discovery. The peace council in Cauca recognized their own knowledge and capacity to build peace by engaging in participatory action research. They collected narratives from their community, built a map of stakeholders, and established connections to strengthen their collective knowledge.

Stephen and Angela shines a light on the critical role of power in peace building. It encourages us to explore the hidden forces that shape our world and empowers us to transform power dynamics for the benefit of marginalized communities. By following the lead of initiatives like those in Colombia, we can work towards a more equitable, peaceful world.