Intergroup Contact - A Chance for long-lasting Peace?

Abstract: The study explores the effect of intergroup contact on the likelihood of spoiler group activity on a micro-regional level in post-conflict societies. It argues that higher levels of intergroup contact make areas more resilient to spoiler groups. This can be especially relevant during exogenous shocks and therefore contributes to the sustainability of peace processes. The resistance to spoiler activity is explained as a result of developing intergroup networks of solidarity, which reduce recruitment capabilities of organized violent groups. The theoretical propositions will be tested by a large-N study (N = 1,203) using the Northern Ireland Life and Times Survey of 2017, distributed about one year after the Brexit referendum. The general findings support the hypothesis that positive intergroup contact decreases the likelihood of spoiler group activity in an area. This study thus contributes to finding applicable solutions to foster stability in peace processes on the local level.