Societies faced with intractable conflict have to seek ways of breaking out of cycles of violence. For as long as war has existed, amnesties have been used for encouraging armed groups to abandon their fight. Barney Afako examines amnesty in relation to the Lord’s Resistance Army conflict. Where to now that the Amnesty Act has lapsed?

What role can young people play in shaping political culture and addressing social problems? Twenty young politicians and civic activists from the South Caucasus recently travelled to Edinburgh and London with the aim of exploring answers to this question. Mira Sovakar reflects on how they're working to build engagement and mutual trust.

In the face of social concerns within the country and a confessional system that favours entrenched elites, where does ownership of Lebanon's post-war situation and future lie? Capturing a snapshot of Beirut during the launch of issue 24 in our Accord series, Zahbia Yousuf asks how peacebuilders can meaningfully engage with those who have a stake in the status quo, and those who are hungry for change.

Emma Leslie shares her reflections on a recent gathering of the Bangsamoro Leadership Assembly in Mindanao. Could developments like the peaceful collaboration of armed forces at the event, there to ensure the safety of several hundred thousand attendees, indicate that the time is ripe for peace in this part of Asia?

Reflecting on the importance of dialogue and vibrant local media in building and sustaining peace, Jenny Norton gives an insight into a series of workshops held with a wide range of Georgians and Abkhaz. What role can journalists and social media play in breaking down conflict barriers?