ABSTRACT
Effective leadership can play a significant role in developing a communications strategy that either furthers peacebuilding objectives – or undermines them – in societies affected by violent conflict. In this chapter we explore several aspects of how leaders and governments in general, strategically guide public expectations and manage tensions around conflict; moderate polarizing language; and try to encourage social cohesion and a national vision. Basing part of the analysis on the work of Albert O. Hirschman in the areas of “exit,” “voice” and “loyalty,” we emphasize the need for encouraging the early signalling of discontent. We draw on examples of communications, conflict and peacebuilding in Africa and the Balkans to illustrate our argument.
