Youthwork in conflict societies: from divergence to convergence

Grattan, Alan and Morgan, Susan (2007) Youthwork in conflict societies: from divergence to convergence. In, Magnuson, Doug and Baizerman, Michael (eds.) Work with Youth in Divided and Contested Societies. Rotterdam. Sense, pp. 165-175.

Abstract

Based upon initial research in Northern Ireland and South Africa, this paper examines the role of youthwork and youthworkers in conflict and post-conflict situations. Using Antonio Gramsci’s concept of the “organic intellectual,” we argue that the youthworker as an organic intellectual is in a unique position to empower young people in the democratic political process. It is particularly critical in situations when communities are in the process of both divergence, moving towards conflict, and convergence, in the process of reconciliation and reconstruction. Youthworkers of and from the indigenous community can be the catalyst for understanding and expressing the common sense philosophy and worldview of the respective communities. As such, they can be key mediators in the divergent and convergent processes.

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