Authors: Tatiana Carayannis, Vesna Bojicic-Dzelilovic, Nathaniel Olin, Anouk Rigterink, Mareike Schomerus

This paper reviews the evidence base that underpins
contemporary approaches to the resolution of violent conflict, in an
effort to improve the lives of conflict-affected populations. By means
of a systematic literature review, the paper explores both academic work
and grey literature focusing on the experiences of the ‘end-users’ of
conflict resolution efforts. It finds that current approaches to
conflict resolution are often based on weak evidence and normative
objectives and make problematic assumptions regarding the actors and
conflict structures involved as well as on the conflict resolution
strategies employed.The conclusion highlights the need to strengthen
the evidence base of conflict research in order to bring conflict
resolution practice into line with empirical realities.

The paper forms part of a series of systematic
evidence reviews undertaken by the JSRP. Other papers in the series
include a review of evidence on Security, Justice, Resources, and Climate Change.