In this chapter, I propose an understanding of unarmed civilian protection (UCP) that places it into the overall framework of conflict transformation and yet still distinguishes it from other approaches. For that purpose, I discuss the three ‘grand strategies’ of conflict transformation first proposed by Johan Galtung – peacemaking, peacekeeping and peacebuilding, in order to better understand which functions UCP serves. In this context, I also explore the relationship between UCP and human rights work as well as civil resistance. In the conclusions, I suggest connections between the concept of conflict transformation and the practical applications of civilian protection.

UCP in this chapter will be used as a cover term for what is also called civil(ian) peacekeeping or (protective) accompaniment. UCP is understood as the protection of civilians from violence in conflict situations by unarmed civilians who are present on the ground where the threat is, using exclusively nonviolent strategies and tools. Through their presence, they deter perpetrators; through building relationships, they influence perpetrators and authorities to change their behaviour. Through community engagement, they encourage communities to protect themselves, to overcome dysfunctional practices and develop nonviolent approaches to conflict. Active nonviolence is the principle on which all UCP activities are based. UCP practitioners are not only unarmed themselves and reject any form of armed protection. They also set an example of a different approach of dealing with conflict, one that is not based on force and power over, but on dialogue, respect and encouragement.

The concept of conflict transformation has widely replaced earlier concepts of dealing with conflict, like conflict management or conflict resolution. Originating with John Paul Lederach (1997), conflict transformation describes dealing with conflict as a long-term inclusive process. The Berghof Foundation defines conflict transformation as: ‘A complex process of constructively changing relationships, attitudes, behaviours, interests and discourses in violence-prone conflict settings. Importantly, conflict transformation addresses and changes underlying structures, cultures and institutions that encourage and condition violent political and social conflict over the long term’ (Berghof Foundation, nd). A related term is that of peacebuilding. Often peacebuilding is used to refer to ‘preventing and managing armed conflict and at sustaining peace after large-scale organized violence has ended.