In simple terms, this statement suggests that war arises when dialogue breaks down completely between parties who are unable or unwilling to negotiate their differences. It highlights the critical role communication plays in resolving conflicts and underscores how devastating it can be when peaceful methods of conflict resolution fail.
At a deeper level, the quote reflects on the nature of human interaction and the mechanisms we use to maintain peace. It implies that negotiation is not merely about reaching an agreement but also about fostering understanding and respect between conflicting parties. When these foundational elements are absent or deemed insufficient, war becomes a tragic recourse for addressing unresolved issues. This perspective encourages reflection on the importance of dialogue in preventing conflict escalation and highlights the broader societal consequences when peaceful resolutions break down.
Ingrid Betancourt is a Colombian politician, author, and former presidential candidate who gained international attention after being kidnapped by the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) in 2002. She spent six years as a hostage before her eventual rescue and release in 2008. Her experiences have informed much of her work on peacebuilding and reconciliation efforts in conflict zones, making her insights particularly poignant on topics such as negotiation and war.
