Rethinking Failure: Feminist Peacebuilding and the Peace Continuum in Violent and Illiberal “Post-Conflict” Settings

Abstract This article introduces the special forum, “Feminism in the Face of Failure: Peacebuilding in Violent and Illiberal ‘Post-Conflict Settings,'” by exploring feminist responses to the shortcomings of both liberal and illiberal peacebuilding models in fragile post-conflict environments. We introduce the concept of a “peace continuum,” challenging traditional binary approaches to peace and conflict. Our framework highlights how grassroots feminist activists, often excluded from formal peace processes, persist in their peacebuilding efforts even amidst renewed violence, authoritarianism, and failed peace agreements. Drawing on examples from countries such as Colombia, Afghanistan, and Myanmar, the forum showcases how women are leading nonmilitarized, inclusive, and locally grounded peace efforts despite the collapse of formal peace processes. The articles collectively emphasize the resilience, intentionality, and ongoing activism of women in reshaping peace, advocating for gender equality, and addressing structural violence in their societies. The issue calls for broader recognition and support for these crucial, often overlooked, feminist peacebuilding efforts, even in situations deemed “failures.”