Can peace exist alongside structural violence?

Yes, peace can exist alongside structural violence, but it is often a fragile and superficial form of peace.

Structural violence refers to systematic ways in which social structures harm or otherwise disadvantage individuals. It is subtle, often invisible, and built into prevalent social, political and economic systems. It manifests in unequal access to resources, political power, education, health care or legal standing. Despite its pervasive nature, it is possible for peace to exist alongside structural violence, but this peace is often precarious and superficial.

This form of peace is often referred to as 'negative peace', a term coined by Norwegian sociologist Johan Galtung. Negative peace refers to the absence of direct, physical violence, but does not take into account the underlying structural or cultural violence that may still be present. In societies with high levels of structural violence, negative peace may exist in the sense that there is no overt conflict or warfare, but the underlying issues of inequality and injustice remain unaddressed. This can lead to a fragile peace that can easily be disrupted.

On the other hand, 'positive peace' is a peace that resolves the underlying issues of structural violence. It involves creating a society where all individuals have equal access to resources and opportunities, and where structural violence is actively dismantled. This form of peace is more sustainable and resilient, but it requires significant societal change and is therefore more difficult to achieve.

In conclusion, while peace can exist alongside structural violence, it is often a fragile and superficial form of peace. Achieving a more sustainable and resilient peace requires addressing and dismantling the underlying structures of violence.