The Indian Experience of Conflict Resolution in Mizoram

The case of Mizoram in India provides informative lessons for conflict resolution. Factors such as addressing the root causes of the conflict, de-escalation in violence, empathizing with the conflicting actor, surrender policy for insurgents, indigenous mediators, absence of peace-spoilers, strengthening of local institutions, formation of a pan-Mizo identity and limited ‘use of force’ policy all played a role in establishing peace in Mizoram. This article posits that the Mizo peace process can act as a guide, if not model, for peaceful resolution of ongoing conflicts in India and the world.