This book investigates the power of two critical peace theories, namely sequencing and hybrid peace theories, in managing the conflict-triggering elements of liberal peace theory. The effectiveness of liberal peace theory's ability to build sustainable peace in post-conflict countries is questioned by critical peacebuilding scholars. This is because liberal peace theory fails to recognize the core elements of democracy — participation and competition — which can cause violent conflict if implemented in a country with weak or ineffective institutions.

These two critical peace theories provided options to mitigate this shortcoming of liberal peace theory. The first, sequencing-Institutionalization Before Liberalization, suggests delaying implementation of the core elements of democracy until institutions that are strong enough to monitor them are built. Meanwhile, the second critical peacebuilding theory, the local turn-hybrid peacebuilding theory, argues for accommodating the views and perspectives of the people within a post-conflict country and building sustainable peace through constant agreement and consensus among various actors in post-conflict countries.

This research explores the power of these critical peace theories in managing the conflict-triggering elements of liberal peace theory and building sustainable peace in post-conflict countries, particularly in Africa.

Jalale Getachew Birru is a Senior Analyst at the Armed Conflict Location & Event Data (ACLED).