The spirit of peace: Spirituality as a motivator for conflict resolution work

In the field of international conflict resolution, spirituality is yet to be fully acknowledged as a valuable element in efforts towards peace. The study presented here seeks to change this by illustrating the relationship between spirituality and conflict resolution from the perspective of the practitioner. It focuses specifically on whether and how spirituality plays a role as a motivator for conflict resolution work. Using the grounded theory methodology, through the coding and analysis of twelve interviews, this study explores transformational moments in the lives of conflict resolution practitioners and demonstrates a connection between spirituality and a drive towards conflict resolution work. Furthermore, the study discovers five key spiritual components that not only motivate practitioners but also make them better at their jobs. Finally, it concludes by stressing the positive effects of spirituality on conflict resolution, and recommends the incorporation of spirituality in conflict resolution work as well as in educational programs.