Decolonizing perspectives in peace research

Decoloniality, decolonial perspectives, decolonial methods and the decolonization of thought have all become significant buzzwords in the academic debates of recent years. What do these terms and concepts mean, and what demands do they entail for peace studies and activism? This chapter pursues three goals: First, to create an understanding of what decolonial perspectives argue and propose as a transformative decolonizing practice. Second, to create an understanding of what this means within peace studies. Third, to highlight some topics that should be addressed to avoid that decolonizing peace studies and peace psychology becomes a metaphor. The chapter discusses along four dimensions how coloniality is reflected there and what added value decolonial perspectives can provide for peace research and peace psychology: (a) knowledge (re)production, (b) research methods, (c) institutions and structures, and (d) intra- and interpersonal mechanisms. All sections are accompanied by examples and orientation questions. In this respect, the chapter does not offer a blueprint but appeals to understand decolonial perspectives as a transformational practice that is imperative for engaging in peace research and practice