Representing 24 authors from 17 countries of Africa, Asia, the Middle East, Europe and the Americas, this volume of essays explores recent developments in peace research, moving beyond the traditional concerns of security and conflict resolution. It offers a discourse which aims to expose the patterns, processes, structures and values that normaliz

"1989 certainly represents one of those moments. yet, when IPRA held its 12th General Conference in August 1988, few of the participants imagined that within the space of 13 months popular social movements would topple socialist regimes in Poland, Czechoslovakia, Hungary and the German Democratic Republic.Nobody imagined the Berlin wall or the wire fence between Hungary and Austria being dismantled. Even fewer contemplated the overthrow of the Ceaucescu regime in Rumania, pluralistic politics in Bulgaria, a single German economy or a reunited Germany."

The number of NGO's working in the area of conflict has increased dramatically over the last few decades and they are fast becoming a vital component of both local and international responses to conflicts. As their influence rises, many seek to more effectively impact the policy making and program development of governments and intergovernmental organizations. But how can NGOs do this effectively without sacrificing their own independence and flexibility? NGOs at the Table explores such challenges by examining a number of NGOs, diverse in size, location, and financial means, that have successfully influenced both policy and program development in conflicts throughout the world. It explores why these organizations decided to embark upon a strategic campaign to influence the policy-making process, as well as outlines the issues addressed and the tactics used. It examines the constraints faced in trying to penetrate the governmental process and discusses how these obstacles were overcome. The book also includes analysis and reflections by a variety of experienced policy-makers and academics working in the field. A unique and much- needed resource for NGO's wishing to extend their own capacities in the field of policy-making, this book will prove valuable for any policy-maker wishing to take advantage of the unique capacities that NGOs contribute to the field of conflict prevention, management, and resolution.