About Book

Marko Lehti’s The Era of Private Peacemakers explores the growing role of non-state actors in peace processes, highlighting how civil society, NGOs, grassroots initiatives, and independent mediators have emerged as key players in conflict resolution. The book argues that peacebuilding is no longer the sole domain of states and international organizations but increasingly involves private peacemakers engaging in Track II diplomacy, conflict mediation, and grassroots activism. Through case studies, Lehti examines new approaches to peacemaking, illustrating the impact of bottom-up initiatives in fostering sustainable peace. Relevance with the Current Era With state-led diplomacy often failing to address complex, protracted conflicts, the role of non-state actors in peacebuilding has become more crucial than ever. The book is highly relevant in today’s global landscape, where civil society, independent mediators, and private organizations are taking the lead in mediation, conflict resolution, and post-conflict rehabilitation. The work aligns with contemporary peace processes in Syria, Afghanistan, and Myanmar, where non-state actors play a key role. This book is a critical resource for understanding the evolving nature of peacebuilding and how private actors contribute to conflict transformation. It is highly recommended for policymakers, peace practitioners, and researchers studying non-traditional diplomacy and civil society engagement in peace processes.