The work of overcoming violence has only just begun

Abstract

The post-Cold War and the post-apartheid situation made evident the need for new ways to address violent conflicts. Looking back at the Decade to Overcome Violence, initiated by the World Council of Churches, it is obvious that it has not achieved the expectations or fulfilled the hopes it gave rise to. Much remains to be done, and a large number of challenges lie ahead. Still the visibility of the peace issue has increased among the churches, and it has promoted countless initiatives for justice and peace.