Peace Education and Restorative Justice in Post-Conflict Colombia: Constitutional Principles, Community Engagement, and Challenges for Social Transformation
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Abstract
This ressearch explores the pivotal role of peace education and restorative justice in Colombia’s post-conflict transformation, grounding its analysis in the constitutional principles established by the 1991 Political Constitution. Employing a qualitative, hermeneutic methodology, the study critically examines primary and secondary sources—including legal documents, academic literature, and testimonies—to interpret the meanings, experiences, and perceptions associated with justice and peacebuilding in Colombian society. The research adopts a descriptive and reflective approach, facilitating a comprehensive understanding of how educational initiatives can foster reconciliation, strengthen civic competencies, and promote human rights in a context marked by decades of armed conflict. Key findings highlight that peace education transcends the mere transmission of knowledge, serving as a transformative social instrument for cultivating ethical values, tolerance, and respect for diversity. The study underscores the importance of integrating both restorative and retributive justice paradigms within educational frameworks to achieve genuine reconciliation and social healing. Challenges such as limited resources, cultural resistance, and political polarization are identified, emphasizing the need for inclusive policies and the active participation of conflict victims in program development. The article concludes that coordinated efforts between the State, civil society, and educational institutions are essential for advancing peace education and restorative justice. By promoting open dialogue, critical reflection, and context-sensitive curricula, Colombia can build a more just, inclusive, and peaceful society. This research contributes to the broader field of transitional justice by demonstrating how education, rooted in constitutional values and community engagement, can serve as a foundation for sustainable peace and social transformation.