ABSTRACT
In relation to securitization and desecuritization in the societal sector, it seems critical to consider the concrete experience of individuals who were, and in some cases remain, physically and psychologically affected by past outbreaks of violence. Aside from strategic interests and rhetorical arguments, the “‘work of memory’” is usually overlooked in securitization research, and more broadly in international relations. In the aftermath of mass atrocities, emotions such as grief, anger, resentment, shame, and/or guilt are widely shared and transmitted. In such circumstances, how can former enemies engage with post-war memory without “‘backsliding’” in a highly securitized conflict? The purpose of the chapter is to explore the conditions under which memory might not only play a role in escalating conflicts, but also – and above all – in desecuritizing them. The chapter is divided into three parts. The first clarifies the concepts used and the research posture that is adopted in this study. The second focuses on agency. Who are the securitizing and desecuritizing agents who attempt to engage with post-war memory – be it to alleviate historical animosities or to reinstate them? The third part concentrates on time. It stresses that the transformation of the relationships between former enemies, as well as the modification of their understanding of security, cannot start at any time and do not take years, but generations.
