Conflict and Factionalism in Peace Movements

Social movements in the United States are carried by broad coalitions of organizations with different goals, methods, and constituencies. Factionalism and conflict are inevitable, and effective movements must find ways to manage rivalries and conflict. The history of the peace movement reveals conflicts among organizations operating with some shared purposes, sometimes precipitated by internal factors, and sometimes precipitated by external shocks. Groups compete for resources, including attention, but must find ways to cooperate on matters of policy. Effective organizers must focus on managing the consequences of conflict rather than ending conflicts, keeping in mind common purposes and tolerating a diversity of approaches.