The scale of global conflict can make peace feel unrealistic. Today, more than 120 million people are displaced by violence, and armed conflicts cost the global economy trillions of dollars each year. These numbers often dominate headlines, reinforcing the idea that war is inevitable. But history tells a different story — one where peace, while fragile, is entirely possible.
Since 1990, approximately 180 armed conflicts have been prevented or brought to an end through negotiation, mediation, and sustained peace efforts. Agreements such as the Dayton Accords in Bosnia and Herzegovina or the Arusha Peace Agreement in Burundi demonstrate that even deeply divided societies can move away from violence. These successes were not accidental; they were the result of years of dialogue, compromise, and international support.
What unites these cases is not perfection, but persistence. Successful peace processes tend to be inclusive, involving not just political elites but also communities most affected by violence. They are supported by trusted mediators and reinforced by long-term commitments rather than quick exits. While peace agreements do not instantly solve all problems, they create space for recovery, reform, and reconciliation. These examples remind us that peace is not a utopian idea — it is a realistic outcome when the right conditions are created.