Is early childhood relevant to peacebuilding?

Abstract

This article explores the relationship between early childhood development (ECD) and peacebuilding by integrating evidence from developmental science with expert perspectives from the fields of early childhood and peace studies. Drawing on the results of an international survey of specialists, the authors argue that positive early experiences, supportive parenting, and family-based interventions can foster empathy, cooperation, resilience, and constructive conflict resolution, thereby contributing to more peaceful families, communities, and societies. The findings reveal a strong consensus that interventions targeting parents—particularly during the prenatal period and early childhood—have significant potential to reduce violence and promote peace across generations. The article concludes that early childhood should be recognized as a critical foundation for peacebuilding and calls for greater integration of ECD policies and peacebuilding initiatives in research, practice, and public policy.