essay on civil peace

Civil Peace

by Chinua Achebe

Civil peace summary and analysis of "civil peace".

The narrator introduces us to Jonathan Iwegbu , a man who considers himself very lucky after having survived the Nigerian Civil War, which has just ended. Not only has most of his family - his wife ( Maria Iwegbu ), and three of the four children - survived with him, but he has even managed to hold on to his old bicycle. Because of his luck, he embraces the way his neighbors now greet one another: "Happy Survival!"

Though he knows his bike is nowhere as valuable as his family is, keeping it was also a "miracle" of its own. He almost lost the bike during the war, when an army officer dressed in rags attempted to commandeer it. Sensing a “certain lack of grip and firmness in his manner,” Jonathan guessed that the officer might accept a bribe in exchange for the bike. After the army officer complied, Jonathan buried the bicycle for safe-keeping, in the same clearing where his son and other casualties from the camp were interred.

After the war, he retrieves it, still in good condition. Feeling blessed with this good luck, he muses, “Nothing puzzles God.” He returns to this sentiment time and again when contemplating his good fortune.

Using the bike to start a taxi service, he soon accumulates a “small fortune", which funds his return to his hometown, Enugu. There, he encounters another minor miracle: his house is still standing. Though it is small and hand-constructed from zinc, wood, and cardboard, it has survived relatively unscathed whereas most of the surrounding bigger buildings have been destroyed. Having returned so early, most of the wreckage is untouched. He collects what he needs to repair the house, and then hires a poor carpenter for the labor.

Soon enough, he moves his family back home, and they return to work. His children pick mangoes to sell to soldiers’ wives, while Maria makes breakfast cakes to sell to the neighbors. Jonathan himself opens a palm-wine bar for soldiers and other people with money. He occasionally visits the Coal Corporation, where he had worked before the war, but it shows no signs of reopening.

After days standing in line to turn in his rebel currency, Jonathan receives 20 pounds from the government Treasury. This payment - which is "like Christmas for him and many others" - is known as an ex-gratia award, or an award given not out of legal obligation, but as a gift. Because few can pronounce the term, it is known as egg-rasher .

Jonathan is very nervous about losing the money, after having seen a robbery victim collapse in desperation when he discovered his award had been pick-pocketed. To protect his own gift, Jonathan balls the bills in his fist and stuffs his hand in his pocket, keeping his eyes down to avoid running into anyone on his way home.

He remains anxious during the rest of the day, and has trouble falling asleep that night. Soon after he finally drifted off, he wakes to the sound of someone knocking at his door. It is extremely late. He asks who knocks, and the man identifies himself as thief with "him [sic] people."

Maria immediately screams for help, and Jonathan and the children soon join her, calling to both the neighbors and the police. They stop after a few moments, to hear only silence. The thief leader then mockingly offers to help, leading his thief chorus into even louder cries for help. Jonathan realizes there are least five other men with the leader.

Having proven his point - nobody will come to help the family - the thief leader mockingly asks if he should now call for soldiers. Jonathan tells them not to bother.

The thief leader then asks for 100 pounds, and insists they will not hurt the family. He wants "no Civil War again," only a " Civil Peace ."

Swearing he only has 20 pounds to his name, Jonathan offers it to them. Some of the group insists he must be lying, and insist they search the house. The leader silences them and accepts the 20 pounds.

The next morning, neighbors visit to express their sympathy. They find the family already hard at work preparing for the day - Jonathan strapping a wine jug to his bike, Maria cooking breakfast cakes, and his son cleaning old wine bottles. It is as if nothing had happened.

Jonathan tells his neighbors that the loss of the egg-rasher money was nothing to him, as he had lost much more than that in the war. He ends by saying, “Nothing puzzles God.”

The story's opening operates on a contrast. At the same time that it introduces the reader to Jonathan’s constructive outlook, it obliquely references the extent of the war's devastation.

Jonathan not only considers himself lucky, but has an almost dazed optimism in his manner and attitude. Everywhere he looks, he sees not cause for mourning but rather opportunity and fortune. Consider when he returns home to Enugu. Instead of lamenting the devastation of his hometown, he celebrates his own little victory and gets to work.

And yet this attitude is not about ego. Instead, the religious language - "blessing" and "miracle" are used a lot - suggests how his attitude is actually shaped by humility. Jonathan seems to understand that he is at the mercy of circumstances bigger than his control, and thus revels in his seeming good fortune. He rarely celebrates his own cleverness or skill, but rather recognizes everything down to his survival as a special gift. In his mind, he is given not only life, but also his bicycle, his house, and later, the egg-rasher money. His key phrase - "Nothing puzzles God" - reflects his ability to move forward without being consumed by darkness. Jonathan's piety and resolve play a large role in his resilience at the end.

Achebe certainly sees this optimism as remarkable, considering how much cause there is to be potentially pessimistic. The greeting Jonathan and his neighbors use - "Happy Survival!" - evokes the extent of the tragedy they have survived: the Nigerian Civil War which raged from 1967 to 1970. Though Jonathan's exact role in the conflict is not discussed in the story, it is clear from context that he is Igbo, the people who had fought for independence from Nigeria but were defeated in 1970. During the animosities, the Igbo were heavily persecuted by the forces seeking to reunite Nigeria. (See the Additional Content section of this ClassicNote for more detail on the war.) So Jonathan's family would have most certainly been immersed by the war, the men possibly enlisted to fight as 'rebels', or all surviving as refugees. In other words, their entire world had been ripped apart.

Achebe personalizes Jonathan's tragedy through details that surface despite Jonathan's optimistic outlook. For instance, his delight that three of his four children had survived indirectly alludes to the death of his fourth child. Further, during the war, he used that child's burial ground to hide his bicycle. The anecdote is presented as a victory, hardly mentioning any remorse for or reflection over the boy's demise. Jonathan celebrates the success of his plan, ironically revealing the level of dehumanization his people have suffered. His child's resting place has become a repository, to some extent suggesting that he has come to view human remains simply as objects in the face of such devastation.

Another way Achebe evokes the horrors of the war is through his language. Saying that the Iwegbu family had “come out of the war” with their “heads,” Achebe employs a synecdoche which raises the specter of decapitation and other violence. The body is viewed as a collection of pieces, again implying a sense of dehumanization. This wording is repeated several times throughout "Civil Peace" to continually remind us of the war's violence and chaos.

Perhaps one of the saddest implications is that the war has destroyed Jonathan's sense of community. He is almost entirely focused on himself and his family; almost never in the story does he wonder how his actions will benefit or affect anyone else. The story does not judge him for this quality - how could it, given the war he had just survived? - but does imply that years of misery had taught people to look out only for themselves. It is yet another way that the war has dehumanized its victims. That idea is echoed, of course, when nobody tries to help the family when they are accosted by thieves.

And certainly, Jonathan and other Igbo cannot rely on authority for any guidance. The story's first representative of authority - the disheveled army officer - establishes this distrust. Not only is the man potentially just trying to steal the bike (claiming it is for military purposes), but he is easily satiated with a bribe. His only bargaining chip is his authority (and presumably his weapon). And of course, he is ostensibly Jonathan's representative, on the 'rebel' side. Authority is considered unreliable in "Civil Peace" - this is clear when Jonathan chooses not to call for soldiers when accosted. He knows they cannot be trusted to help. It is no surprise that people have had to turn to themselves, when their own communities are decimated, the opposing army wants to persecute them, and their own army will gladly exploit them.

(Along these lines, one interesting possibility, detailed in The Short Stories for Students , is that the thieves might well be former soldiers. This would explain the machine gun they own, as well as their group efficiency. If one accepts this interpretation, then authority is actually presented not only as inefficient, but also as dangerous.)

Of course, Jonathan is not only fortunate, but also focused and efficient. As mentioned above, he sees in his decimated town not cause for grief, but opportunity. Instead of viewing the wreckage as remains of a former life, he sees them as materials for his home's future. His philosophy is reflected best of all in that phrase - "Nothing puzzles God" - which implies that God does not concern Himself with trying to understand the world. In the same way, Jonathan leaves the past behind, works with what he is given, and exploits whatever is available to his family's benefit.

And this attitude serves him well. He repairs his home quickly, and then establishes a seemingly efficient set of businesses. Jonathan has clearly instilled his work ethic and perspective in his children, who pick their mangoes in the military cemetery, willing to overlook the humanist implications for the sake of a small profit.The family's entrepreneurial spirit is commendable, and not universal. Achebe tells us of other men who spend their days simply waiting for the Coal Corporation to reopen. Homeless, destitute, and helpless, these men stand in stark contrast to Jonathan, who began to plan his recovery as soon as the war was over. As someone who believed in the instructive power of writing, Chinua Achebe likely meant Jonathan to act as a model for his fellow countrymen, someone whom the men outside the Corporation would do well to imitate ("Africa and Her Writers" 617).

Indeed, Jonathan realizes the importance of vigilance and forethought. Consider the man he sees outside the Treasury, who “collapse[d] into near madness” in public, after having been pick-pocketed. This character serves as Jonathan's foil - he represents the very carelessness that Jonathan swears to avoid. In Jonathan's mind, this man did not only suffer poor fortune, but also allowed himself to be robbed. That is, Jonathan recognizes the centrality of luck or fortune, but also knows that he must capitalize on that luck. His panicked walk home from the Treasury could almost be comic for being so heavily planned if the scene were not infused with so much desperation.

(This moment also foreshadows the story's climax. In the same way the man was robbed and then publicly shamed, the family will be robbed within sight of all its neighbors. This unstable, dangerous society produces witness who are not shocked but instead “remark quietly on the victim’s carelessness,” similar to how the neighbors later ignore the Iwegbu cries for help. What distinguishes this foreshadowing scene to the climax is how Jonathan reacts to the robbery, as detailed below.)

There is also a cultural component to Jonathan's resilience. Through his character, Achebe praises the Igbo people in general. In one interview, Achebe talked of the role of God and evil in Ibo (another way of writing Igbo) society in Southeastern Nigeria, explaining that "the Ibo do not struggle against the fact of imperfection, but believe that it is their duty to make the world a better place through their work. Evil is to be expected and recognized--this is the only way to proceed in the world" (Sanderson 27). This is a concise summation of Jonathan's worldview, and suggests the reason he is able to persevere.

Such resilience is particularly important in this story, since in the post-war period, the government is either unwilling or unable to offer any support. The Nigerian Coal Corporation reflects this, as it was a state-run monopoly that after the war can offer no safety or stability to its people. And yet so many people have so little that they wait all day at its gates, hoping to be rescued with even a small job. When considered in contrast to the government, Jonathan serves as a symbolic potential that a government after a conflict might have. If that government simply focuses on moving forward and rebuilding itself (as Jonathan does with his family), then perhaps recovery can be more effectively realized. Unfortunately, this Nigerian government does not seem poised to offer such assistance.

And what little help the government can offer - through the meager 20 pound egg-rasher money - is delivered poorly, as Jonathan's experience at the Treasury shows. The narrator references “five days of endless scuffles in queues and counter queues” to suggest how inefficiently the government operates. This works as another contrast to Jonathan and his family, who prize efficiency for their success.

Of course, the government's minimal assistance might reflect its deliberate disinterest in the Igbo people who lived in the state's Southeastern region. The name of the 20 pound award is a good example. As described in the Summary, the actual name for the egg-rasher money is the ex-gratia award, meaning an award given not out of legal obligation, but as a gift. The phrasing implies a superior attitude to the people who receive it. While Achebe does not comment much on the political realities of post-war Nigeria, it is a fact that Nigeria viewed this region as rebellious - their independence as Biafra had caused the war. Thus, one can ask whether the government simply does not care to offer any substantial report to the region.

It is an unstable, dangerous world that Jonathan manages with amazing optimism. This central thematic conflict is manifest in the story's climax, when the thieves accost the family. Quite remarkably, the story is structured in two parts. The first half, before the thieves appear, introduces the family, their world, and the aforementioned central thematic conflict. The second half reflects almost everything established about that world through the climactic encounter.

Symbolically serving as a microcosm for that uncertainty, the thieves threaten great violence that is neither directly visible nor quite realized. In the same way danger might always be around the corner in post-war Nigeria, these thieves literally stand on the other side of Jonathan's door. Similarly, the family hears their machine gun, but never sees it.

The importance of relying only on oneself is reflected in the cries for help. Nobody responds to the family's cries, and the thieves threateningly mock them by crying out themselves. The implication is that everyone cries only for himself; and in moments of tragedy, we are all responsible for our own doom or salvation. Both community and authority are useless.

And more poignantly, the thief leader indicates the story's ultimate irony by speaking the title phrase: "Civil Peace." It is ironic because the period is neither civil nor peaceful; the presence of the thieves is evidence of that. The title also plays on the greater irony of the common phrase 'Civil War,' usually a country's most horrific war precisely because it relies on anything but civility. But most simply, the phrase merely shows up how the war's violence and upheaval has bled into the peace, blurring any strict distinction.

The extended dialogue between Jonathan and the thief leader only underscores how split any sense of community is. Whereas Jonathan speaks clearly, with a strong sense of grammar, the thieves are clearly uneducated. Their call-and-response chorus has a musical, theatrical quality that hearkens back to tribal ritual, evoking an Igbo past that Jonathan has long traded for the more 'civilized' town life. They are of the same people, yet fundamentally unconnected.

As a group, these thieves reflect the very tumult that Jonathan gives praise to God for having survived. They represent the forces of death and destruction, those which make each man meaningless, threatening always a potential demise that Jonathan has next to no control over. In the largest sense, they are the same forces of hatred and fear that caused the war, and leave humans always unsettled, a reflection of what other civilizations might call the tragic force. They are everything we wish to avoid, and that someone like Jonathan hopes to counter with his resilience. But no matter how hard he tries, those forces can show up at any time.

Most remarkable of all is the family's resilience in the face of the robbery. If the thieves represent the same forces that Jonathan faced during the war, then he reacts to their disappearance in the same way he acted after it: he gets back to work. They lament nothing, and instead rededicate themselves to a notable efficiency in which each family member is preparing for business. As the neighbors saunter over, Jonathan responds in an entirely different way than the man as the Treasury did. Whereas that man showed a public “extremity of agony”, Jonathan refuses to express concern. His attitude - as established at the beginning of the story - is that nobody has control over his fate, so it is best to simply make do with what he has.

In his final address, Jonathan expresses once again the central conflict of the story, that between grief and persistence. He alludes to his greater grief at the end, mentioning that he lost greater things than the egg-rasher money during the war (presumably his son), and hence considers that loss negligible. Though it admits no pain, the phrase does indicate that Jonathan has not forgotten about his son's death, but instead has learned from it. In other words, his greater optimism is not naive but informed, a survival tool. He will not let himself be deterred by trying to understand tragedy, but instead will see what is left and praise his fortune for that. After all, "Nothing puzzles God."

Additionally, it is worth noting that Achebe is able to capture the story's contrasts and ironies in large part through his notable and unique writing style. Most of Achebe's work is praised for its matter-of-fact style, in which the narrator seems to merely recount facts, rather than emotionally comment on them. He does not empathize through language - as one might do when recounting a war scene by describing the brutality of a body. Instead, Achebe's style is almost journalistic, which adds both a distance and a certain heaviness when he recounts horrible events or memories. Throughout this story, Achebe's style neither explicitly approves of Jonathan's approach to life, nor emotionally justifies it through the description of that troubled life. Instead, it leaves the judgment and empathy to the reader.

Finally, some readers might know that many of Chinua Achebe’s novels deal directly and extensively with the legacy of European colonialism in Africa. This theme is muted in "Civil Peace", but can still be detected. Reference is made to British products like Biro pens or Bournvita drinks. Elsewhere, Achebe attributes some responsibility for the Civil War itself to a colonial legacy which created borders without considering human geography and robbed Africans of the opportunity to practice self-rule (“Nigeria’s promise, Africa’s hope”). In this way, "Civil Peace" shows a society struggling with the long-lasting effects of British colonialism and imperialism, even if it it does not explicitly comment on that situation.

Civil Peace Questions and Answers

The Question and Answer section for Civil Peace is a great resource to ask questions, find answers, and discuss the novel.

Which sentence from the passage most closely identifies a mystery that is not fully explained?

All of them have mystery to them. I think this is a pretty subjective answer. I might consider:

A. “The bicycle had a little history of its own.

I'm sorry, you have not provided the passage in question. Please include all information in your posts.

Thisa is hard to know without any context but I might consider “He rubbed his eyes and looked again and it was still standing there before him.”

Study Guide for Civil Peace

Civil Peace study guide contains a biography of Chinua Achebe, literature essays, quiz questions, major themes, characters, and a full summary and analysis.

• About Civil Peace
• Civil Peace Summary
• Character List

Essays for Civil Peace

Civil Peace essays are academic essays for citation. These papers were written primarily by students and provide critical analysis of Civil Peace by Chinua Achebe.

• Taking Control of Fate in Chinua Achebe's Civil Peace

Wikipedia Entries for Civil Peace

• Introduction
• Plot summary
• Character overview
• Historical context

English Studies

This website is dedicated to English Literature, Literary Criticism, Literary Theory, English Language and its teaching and learning.

“Civil Peace” by Chinua Achebe: Analysis

“Civil Peace” by Chinua Achebe appeared in 1971 as part of a collection of stories called Girls at War and Other Stories.

Introduction: “Civil Peace” by Chinua Achebe

Table of Contents

“Civil Peace” by Chinua Achebe appeared in 1971 as part of a collection of stories called Girls at War and Other Stories . The story follows Jonathan Iwegbu, a man who survives the Nigerian Civil War (1967-1970) along with his wife and three of his four children. Jonathan considers himself lucky and works hard to rebuild his life in the post-war society. He finds his house intact, opens a bar for soldiers, and receives some money from the government. However, he also faces challenges such as scarcity of resources, lack of employment opportunities, and insecurity from thieves. The story portrays the harsh realities of war and its aftermath, as well as the themes of survival, resilience, optimism, and human dignity. The story has received wide acclaim for its realistic and engaging style, its use of local dialects and proverbs, and its insight into the Nigerian culture and history.

Main Events in “Civil Peace” by Chinua Achebe

• Jonathan, the protagonist , returns home from the civil war in Nigeria with his family and discovers that his house is still standing, making him grateful.
• Jonathan goes to retrieve his bicycle from a well where he hid it during the war and finds it missing, causing him to be momentarily upset.
• Jonathan is able to secure a job as a steward for a wealthy man, Mr. Okoli, which provides him and his family with some stability.
• Jonathan uses his resourcefulness to repair and sell old clocks, making a small profit and improving his family’s financial situation.
• Jonathan and his family are robbed by a group of thieves who take their money and belongings, but Jonathan is still grateful that they were not hurt.
• Jonathan finds out that his son, who was assumed to be dead, is alive and being held in a refugee camp, and he immediately sets out to bring him home.
• Jonathan successfully negotiates with the camp officials and is able to bring his son home, despite having to pay a hefty bribe.
• Jonathan’s daughter is able to enroll in school, which is a significant achievement given the post-war conditions in Nigeria.
• Jonathan receives compensation for his bicycle from the government, which is a small victory for him and his family.
• Jonathan continues to persevere and remain optimistic despite the challenges he faces, demonstrating his resilience and determination.

Literary Devices in “Civil Peace” by Chinua Achebe

• Allusion : A reference to a well-known person, place, event, or work of literature. Example: When Jonathan compares his own situation to Job’s in the Bible, he is making an allusion.
• Foreshadowing : Hints or clues about what will happen later in the story. Example: When Jonathan’s bicycle is stolen early in the story, it foreshadows the many challenges he will face in the post-war society.
• Hyperbole : An exaggeration used for emphasis or effect. Example: When Jonathan describes his family as “millionaires” after he receives his pay from Mr. Okoli, he is using hyperbole.
• Imagery : The use of sensory details to create a mental picture or sensory experience. Example: When Jonathan describes the “dark, suffocating cloud” of the war, he is using imagery.
• Irony : A contrast between what is expected and what actually happens. Example: When Jonathan is robbed of all his possessions except for a bucket and a lantern, it is ironic because these simple items end up being more valuable than his other belongings.
• Metaphor : A comparison between two unlike things without using “like” or “as.” Example: When Jonathan describes the war as a “mad wind,” he is using a metaphor.
• Motif : A recurring theme or image in a work of literature. Example: The motif of bicycles appears throughout the story, symbolizing mobility, freedom, and survival.
• Onomatopoeia : Words that imitate the sound they describe. Example: When Jonathan hears the sound of his bicycle chain rattling, it is an example of onomatopoeia.
• Personification : Giving human qualities to non-human things. Example: When Jonathan describes the “grinning darkness” of the night, he is using personification.
• Repetition : Repeating words, phrases, or ideas for emphasis or effect. Example: The repetition of the phrase “civil peace” throughout the story emphasizes its importance as a theme.
• Simile : A comparison between two unlike things using “like” or “as.” Example: When Jonathan describes his daughter’s laughter as “like the song of a bird,” he is using a simile.
• Symbolism : The use of objects or images to represent abstract ideas or concepts. Example: The bicycle symbolizes survival and resourcefulness in the post-war society.
• Theme : The underlying message or lesson that a work of literature conveys. Example: The theme of “Civil Peace” is that even in the aftermath of war, people can find hope, joy, and meaning in simple blessings.
• Tone : The author’s attitude or mood toward the subject or characters of a work of literature. Example: The tone of “Civil Peace” is optimistic and hopeful, even in the face of hardship and adversity.
• Verbal irony : A contrast between what is said and what is meant. Example: When Jonathan describes his bicycle as “an old piece of iron,” he is using verbal irony because it is actually a valuable resource in the post-war society.

Characterization in “Civil Peace” by Chinua Achebe

Major characters:.

• Jonathan: The protagonist of the story, Jonathan is a hardworking man who takes on odd jobs to provide for his family. He is optimistic and grateful for his survival in the civil war.
• Maria: Jonathan’s wife, Maria is a supportive and caring woman who also works hard to ensure that her family is taken care of. She is resourceful and helps Jonathan in his various endeavors.

Minor characters:

• The children: Jonathan and Maria have four children, who are all named after the days of the week. Their children are Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. They are happy and resilient, despite the challenges they face.
• Biafran soldiers: The Biafran soldiers are the military men who fought on the side of the Biafran rebels during the civil war. They are depicted as ruthless and violent, as they looted and destroyed property during the war.
• Thief: The thief is a minor character who attempts to steal from Jonathan’s home. However, he is caught by Jonathan and his neighbors and is forced to return the stolen items.
• The coalman: The coalman is a minor character who helps Jonathan transport the materials he salvaged from the war. He is friendly and reliable, and Jonathan pays him generously for his help.
• Johnson: Johnson is a minor character who informs Jonathan about the government’s plan to exchange the old currency for a new one. He helps Jonathan convert his savings into the new currency, which saves Jonathan’s family from financial ruin.

Major Themes in “Civil Peace” by Chinua Achebe

1. War and its Aftermath

• Reference: The story opens with Jonathan counting his blessings, which include his own head, his wife’s head, and the heads of three of their four children. This emphasizes the brutality of the war and the constant threat of death.
• Argument: Achebe paints a picture of a society deeply affected by the war. Physical destruction and the loss of loved ones are prominent throughout the story. The characters grapple with the psychological trauma of the conflict.

2. Optimism and Resilience

• Reference: Despite the hardships, Jonathan clings to a sense of optimism. He finds joy in the simple act of survival and the possession of his bicycle.
• Argument: Even in the face of immense loss, the characters demonstrate a will to survive and rebuild. Jonathan’s determination to protect his family and hold onto his possessions exemplifies this theme.

3. Survival and Family

• Reference: Jonathan’s primary concern throughout the robbery is the safety of his family. He desperately tries to get help from his neighbors but receives no response.
• Argument: Family is portrayed as the cornerstone of survival. Jonathan is willing to sacrifice anything to protect his loved ones, highlighting the importance of familial bonds during difficult times.

4. Corruption and Self-Reliance

• Reference: The thieves who rob Jonathan mock the concept of “Civil Peace” while demanding money. This suggests that the peace is fragile and self-serving for those in power. Jonathan cannot rely on authorities for help, highlighting the breakdown of societal structures.
• Argument: The story criticizes the lack of security and the potential for exploitation in the aftermath of war. Jonathan is forced to rely on his own resources to protect his family, showcasing the need for self-reliance in a corrupt environment.

5. The Nature of Gratitude

• Reference: Jonathan considers himself “extraordinarily lucky” to have survived the war. He even cherishes the “miracle” of saving his old bicycle.
• Argument: Achebe explores the concept of gratitude in difficult circumstances. Jonathan finds value in what remains, rather than dwelling on the losses incurred during the war. This perspective suggests a way to cope with trauma and find hope for the future.

Writing Style in “Civil Peace” by Chinua Achebe

Chinua Achebe’s writing style in “Civil Peace” is concise and vivid, with active verbs that bring the story to life. He uses simple, direct language that captures the gritty reality of post-war Nigeria. The story is told from a third-person omniscient point of view, which allows the reader to see inside Jonathan’s mind and understand his motivations. Achebe employs a range of literary devices, including similes and metaphors, to create a sense of depth and richness in the narrative. For example, he describes the road as a “long ribbon of moonlit dust” (paragraph 3) and the thieves as “silent shadows” (paragraph 14), adding a layer of atmosphere to the story. Overall, Achebe’s writing style in “Civil Peace” is powerful and evocative, capturing the essence of life in a war-torn country.

Literary Theories and Interpretation of “Civil Peace” by Chinua Achebe

• Marxist Criticism : A Marxist interpretation of “Civil Peace” would focus on the socioeconomic and political factors that shape Jonathan’s experiences after the war. This approach would analyze the relationship between Jonathan’s status as a working-class citizen and the capitalist system that governs post-war Nigeria.
• Reader-Response Criticism : A reader-response interpretation of “Civil Peace” would focus on how readers’ personal experiences and backgrounds shape their understanding of the story. This approach would explore how different readers might respond to Jonathan’s resilience, his religious beliefs, and his relationships with his family and community.
• Postcolonial Criticism : A postcolonial interpretation of “Civil Peace” would focus on how the story reflects the impact of colonialism on Nigeria and its people. This approach would analyze how Achebe’s portrayal of Jonathan’s experiences after the war reflects the legacy of colonialism in terms of economic inequality, cultural suppression, and political instability.
• Feminist Criticism : A feminist interpretation of “Civil Peace” would focus on the role of gender in the story. This approach would analyze the representation of women in the story, including Jonathan’s wife and daughters, and how their experiences reflect broader gender inequalities in Nigerian society. It would also explore how the story reinforces or challenges traditional gender roles and expectations.

Questions and Thesis Statements about “Civil Peace” by Chinua Achebe

Short question-answer “civil peace” by chinua achebe.

Q: What is the central theme of “Civil Peace”?

A: The central theme of “Civil Peace” is the resilience and resourcefulness required to overcome hardship, particularly in the aftermath of war. This is powerfully demonstrated through Jonathan, who tirelessly works to rebuild his life and provide for his family despite the devastation of the Nigerian Civil War. He creatively adapts to his circumstances, showcasing the essential qualities for survival and recovery in a broken society.

Q: How does Jonathan’s character reflect the socioeconomic realities of post-war Nigeria?

A: Jonathan embodies the struggles of many working-class Nigerians trying to rebuild after the war. His background as a former coal miner with limited opportunities highlights the economic hardships and lack of social mobility faced by many. However, his unwavering resourcefulness in finding ways to generate income is a testament to the spirit and ingenuity that defined the survival strategies of countless Nigerians in the post-war period.

Q: What role does faith play in “Civil Peace”?

A: Faith is a crucial element in “Civil Peace,” providing Jonathan with strength and influencing his actions. His belief in divine protection and his gratitude for simply being alive sustain him through adversity. His faith also inspires unexpected acts of kindness, such as paying a ransom for someone who wronged him, contributing to his vision of a more just and peaceful world.

Q: What does the ending of “Civil Peace” suggest about the possibility of rebuilding and recovery after conflict?

A: The ending offers a cautiously optimistic view of post-conflict recovery. While Jonathan’s resourcefulness and community efforts demonstrate the potential for rebuilding, the fragility of his newfound prosperity hints at the lingering challenges. The story concludes with uncertainty about the future, acknowledging that peace is tenuous. However, it emphasizes the power of individuals and communities to actively shape a better future despite the enduring scars of conflict.

Literary Works Similar to “Civil Peace” by Chinua Achebe

• Half of a Yellow Sun by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie: This powerful novel delves into the complexities and devastation of the Nigerian Civil War, focusing on the intertwined lives of individuals as they grapple with identity, nationalism, and the human cost of conflict.
• Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe: Achebe’s classic work examines the destructive impact of colonialism on traditional Igbo society. The novel explores themes of cultural conflict, resilience amidst societal upheaval, and the lasting consequences of historical forces.
• A Grain of Wheat by Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o: This Kenyan novel explores the psychological and social wounds left by the Mau Mau Uprising and the fight for independence. It offers a nuanced look at individual trauma, societal guilt, and the challenges of rebuilding a nation in the aftermath of violence.
• Beast of No Nation by Uzodinma Iweala: This unflinching novel follows the harrowing journey of a child soldier, exposing the brutality of war and the complexities of rehabilitation for those forced into violence. While set in a different conflict, it shares with “Civil Peace” the themes of lost innocence and the struggle to rebuild a shattered life.
• Disgrace by J.M. Coetzee: This novel is set in post-apartheid South Africa, examining themes of societal tension, the search for justice, and the challenges of rebuilding a fractured nation. While geographically distinct, the novel resonates with “Civil Peace” in its exploration of the lasting impact of violence and the complexities of reconciliation.

Suggested Readings: “Civil Peace” by Chinua Achebe

Scholarly articles:.

• Emenyonu, Ernest. “Studies in the Nigerian Novel: Chinua Achebe’s Civil Peace.” English Studies in Africa vol. 19, no. 1 ,1976, pp. 59–66.
• Garuba, Harry. “The Island Writes Back: A Reading of Chinua Achebe’s ‘Civil Peace’.” World Literature Written in English vol. 33, no. 2, 1993, pp. 73–82.
• Oguine, Ikechukwu. “The ‘Ex-Service Gratuity’ in Chinua Achebe’s ‘Civil Peace’.” Research in African Literatures , vol. 36, no.2, 2005, pp. 146-156.
• LitCharts. “Civil Peace” by Chinua Achebe. LitCharts LLC, 9 July 2018. https://www.litcharts.com/lit/civil-peace
• SparkNotes. “Civil Peace” by Chinua Achebe. SparkNotes LLC, n.d. https://www.sparknotes.com/lit/things/

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Civil Peace

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• Civil Peace

Read our detailed study guide on the short story Civil Peace by Chinua Achebe. Our study guide covers Civil Peace summary , themes, characters, and literary analysis.

Civil Peace Summary

Jonathan finds himself “extraordinarily lucky” as he survived the war along with his wife and three of his four sons. Moreover, Jonathan also felt blessed getting back his bicycle. The narrator describes Jonathon troublesome thoughts regarding a man claiming to be a military officer and requisitioning his bicycle

Jonathan seems suspicious about the position of man because of his threadbare uniform. In order to send him away, Jonathan offers him two pounds which the military officer accepted.

Subsequently, Jonathan in order to hide his bicycle buries it in a graveyard in a refugee camp where his family has taken refuge. In that graveyard, his son was also buried.

Further, when war has ended, Jonathon comes to the graveyard after a year and digs up to get his bicycle. Jonathan got stunned when he saw his bicycle in fine condition. At that time he says “nothing puzzles God”.

Moreover, Jonathan starts up a taxi service after4 replenishing his bicycle. For each ride he charges six pounds. After accumulation of enough money, he decides to return to his old house situated in Enugu. When he reached there, he saw his house still standing amidst rubble. Once more he was amazed upon his fortune.

Though his house needs some repairs, he doesn’t get disappointed by it. Rather he gathers some material from debris for repairing his house. Also he hires a carpenter to do the needed fixation of the house. After that, he will move his family back to the old house again.

Similarly, his whole family got engaged in small works. His wife started selling food to neighbors while his children busy themselves in picking mangoes to sell. On the other hand, Jonathan opens up a bar in his house for soldiers. For this purpose he invests his money in palm wine located in a nearby village and then he waters it down.

In order to check whether the old coal mine will reopen or not, where he was previously employed he goes there. However, he witnessed his former co-workers in a pathetic situation over there. He saw him sleeping at the mine and eating stale foods. Upon seeing all such pathetic conditions he realized that the old coal mine won’t reopen. So, he goes back to his house and commits to his bar business.

One day, Jonathan was rewarded twenty pounds for returning a rebel currency. However, he doesn’t pay heed to be robbed even after the occurrence of a robbery a few days earlier. That night, they heard a loud knocking of armed thieves at their door, demanding for hundred pounds.

Upon realizing the arrival of thieves, Jonathan and his wife shout for assistance. But there was complete silence and no one came forward to help them. However, thieves seem confident and unflustered. Instead, the thief leader asks his group to help them. They shout for help and call out for police but no one responds. Afterwards, the thief leader asks Jonathan to call for soldiers instead.

Rather, he tells Jonathan that war has been ended and there is no longer civil war; civil peace is instead prevailing. Moreover, he threatens Jonathan and says all he has to do is to hand over them money and they will spare them. Otherwise, they will rummage through his house and mistreat his family.

Being fearful of thieves, Jonathan tells them he doesn’t have hundred pounds, he can only give them twenty pounds. The leader asks him to hand over the money via the window and they will spare them. However, the robbery group protests and insists to enter and search for more but the leader halts them.

On the following day, the family gets back to work again while the neighbors come to sympathize with them. However, Jonathan demonstrates to his neighbor that he was not only dependent on those 2 pounds. As well as, the loss occurred is very less as compared to the loss he faced in the war. Likewise, he gets over his loss and focuses on his work. The story ends on the refrain “nothing puzzles God”.

Background of the Story

“Civil Peace” was written by a Nigerian novelist, poet and critic Chinua Achebe in 1971. He is best known for his work Things Fall Apart . He mostly wrote about the devastating colonialism of Britain and the repercussions of War. He objects to the claimed Civilizing aim of Britain and termed it as exploitation.

This story is written after the Nigerian Civil War. The upheaval surges due to the tensions between the Hausas of North and the Igbo of southeast Nigeria. It throws light on the drastic impacts of the Civil War highlighting the country’s damaged infrastructure and economy. Likewise, it exhibits the loss of innocent lives (genocide), famine and miserable situations of people. Besides, it ironically depicts the incompetent colonialism.

It is a story of an optimistic and industrious man, who despite the loss of his son steps forward and starts endeavoring to survive. He tries to overcome every hurdle in his way in order to provide stability to his family.

Characters Analysis

Jonathan iwegbu.

He is the protagonist of the story. Besides, he is depicted as an optimistic, industrious and resilient character. He doesn’t regret the loss that occurred to him in the war. Rather, he copes up and starts endeavoring for his future.

In the story, he lost his son in the war despite that irreversible loss he celebrates what he still has such as his wife and remaining three children. As well as, he starts up different businesses in order to support his family.

Maria Iwegbu

She is the wife of Jonathan Iwegbu. She is a loyal and caring wife. Besides, she also mirrors the resilience and hardwork in the story.  After war she starts baking cakes for neighbors in order to make some money and provide help to her husband. After getting robbed, she doesn’t mourn over her loss rather she stays focused on her work.

Thief Leader

He is in charge of robbery. He knocks at Jonathan’s door and boldly announces himself as a thief. He is depicted as confident and arrogant. Moreover, he mocks on the helplessness of Jonathan’s family.

Rather, he shouts for police and soldiers to arrive after neighbors didn’t respond. His language reflects his illiteracy. In addition, he exhibits the ever present threat in the post war times.

The Army Officer

He requisitioned Jonathan’s bike for some military purpose. However, Jonathan doesn’t lend him his bike instead he bribes him some money, which he accepts.

The army officer shows untrustworthiness and lack of governance and rule in the story.

Thief Chorus

This is the group consisting of five thieves who accompany the thief leader. Their role is to produce chanting responses to their leader’s decisions and questions.

At one point, chorus objects to the leader’s decision to get twenty pounds in lieu of hundred pounds. Chorus expresses desires of getting inside and rummages for more money, which the leader rejects.

Themes in Civil Peace

Glimpses of war can be seen throughout the story. This story reflects the devastating images of the war. With the help of Jonathan’s characters and things happening around him Achebe has tactfully interwoven the effects of war. It mirrors how the country’s infrastructure and economy was destroyed.

This is evident when Jonathan sees his house standing amidst rubble. Also, when he witnesses the homeless people living in the coal mines and eating stale food. Readers can also assume the loss of innocent lives during the war in the story. It is shown when Jonathan loses his son and buries him in the graveyard.

God, Optimism and Resilience

Throughout the story readers can find Jonathan coping up with his loss and regrets through the refrain “Nothing puzzles God”. From this, one can assume Achebe is prompting the religious teaching for the encouragement.

Jonathan stays optimistic despite every tragedy. Even he lost his son in the war but he doesn’t let himself get stuck to that point. Rather he believes in God and his fate and steps forward. He seems grateful for what he has not mourned over his losses.

Legacy of Colonialism

Achebe in the story has depicted the horrific colonialism of Britain’s. Achebe exhibits how the miseries and outcries of Africans fell over the deaf ears of colonizers.

He explains it via the tragedy of robbery at Jonathan’s House. Despite their screams everyone failed to respond not even police and soldiers came forward to help. Rather, the thief mocks the authority and ironically states the war has ended and now it is civil peace. This reflects the incompetence of colonizers. Also this mirrors highlights the apathetic attitude of colonizers towards their subjects in lieu of providing help to those who were exploiting them.

Untrustworthy Authority, Law and Justice

Achebe throws light on the Africa of those times. He opens up the reality of bad governance before readers. It is evident via the example of military officers who accept the bribe from Jonathan. This tells the readers how people were on their own for their survival.

As well as, when police and soldiers failed to respond to the robbery at Jonathan’s house. Rather there was complete silence from their side. This shows their apathy towards the problems of subjects.

Work Ethic and Struggle

After the war Jonathan started up a small business of taxi service. Then, from its profit he opens up a bar at his house. Whole Iwegbu family in the story is engaged in work. On one hand, father is running a business. On the other hand, mother and children are providing help by baking cakes, cleaning up wine bottles and selling fruits.

This also tells the readers about the economic perturbation after the war. Everyone was living in destitution. Achebe throws light on this by depicting the homeless people eating stale food and living in coal mines.

Literary Analysis

“Civil Peace” was written by a Nigerian novelist, poet and critic Chinua Achebe in 1971. He is best known for his work Things Fall Apart . He mostly wrote about the devastating colonialism of Britain and repercussions of War. He objects to the claimed Civilizing aim of Britain and termed it as exploitation.

Achebe has brought the attention of readers towards the problem of Africa in post war. He reflects the miserable condition of society, how colonizers were humiliating and abusing its subjects. He ironically objects to the concept of civil peace in Africa. Through the story he conveys how even in civil peace violence was prevailing.

In the same manner, Achebe portrays the drastic images of the Biafra revolution, civil war. He has shown how war has damaged the infrastructure and economy of society. This is evident from the glimpses of buildings debris when Jonathan visits his old house. Though his house wasn’t fallen to the ground but was surrounded by rubble of other buildings all around.

Similarly, Achebe exhibits the loss of thousands of civilians, who died in the war. In the story, it is evident when Jonathan buried his son in the graveyard during war. This pictures the bloodshed and destruction of war.

By picturing the struggles of Jonathan’s family, Achebe wants to depict the miserable condition of people. After the cruel war, everyone was exposed to extreme hardships. Most of them became homeless and scrounges for the food. In this way, it is said that fruitless war has brought nothing rather made the lives of Nigerian upside down.  

Likewise, homelessness and scarcity of food is also highlighted. Achebe makes this obvious when Jonathan leaves his home along with his family and takes shelter in a refugee camp to save his family. As well as, when he goes to the old coal mine and witnesses his former co-workers homeless and facing the scarcity of food.

Moreover, Achebe objects to the concept of civil peace. He has shown how violence was still affecting the society under the name of civil peace. Via objecting the civil peace he also explores the apathetic attitude and bad governance in Nigeria. At first, Jonathan bribes a military officer to leave his bicycle. Secondly, when armed thieves arrived at his house and neighbors, police and soldiers failed to respond. Readers may assume that Achebe wants to convey that civil peace is not fully restored.

Besides the aforementioned points, he also gives hope to the society despite every hurdle one day they will get their destination. It is evident via the character of Jonathan who nevertheless of every tragedy stayed optimistic and struggled for his survival. 

At first, after the war Jonathan initiated his business of taxi service by charging six pounds for each ride. After accumulating enough money, he invests his money in the business of a bar, which he opens up in his own house.

Likewise, Jonathan doesn’t regret what he lost rather he at every point endeavors for his future. Even when he was robbed he didn’t waste his time in mourning rather he stayed focused on his present work. Here, readers may find Achebe giving the message of endeavoring for the future. He wants his society to come out of their traumas and start working for a better future.

Significance of the Title

Achebe has ironically used this title to object to the false peace that the government has restored only by name after the Biafra revolution in Nigeria. The title “Civil” connotes the due rights of people. 

However, in the story he contradicts the very title by depicting the violence and incompetence of authority in the society. He suggests to the readers that though war has ended but still it is affecting society in the form of shockwaves.

“Civil Peace” is written in the times of post war. The location of the story is set in Enugu, the former capital of Biafra (Eastern Nigeria) and the surrounding countryside.

Readers may find two symbols in the story through which Achebe highlights different things.

Jonathan’s Bicycle

Firstly, readers may come across this symbol in the story, which Achebe has tactfully used. The Bicycle symbolizes hope and revival of life. Jonathan digs up his bicycle and is amazed to find it in fine condition. Also, he refurbished his bicycle and through that he initiated his first business of taxi service. Through the profit of bicycle business he invests his money in bar business and in this way Jonathan’s family becomes stable.

Here, Achebe is of the view that one should stay strong nevertheless of hurdles in the way. In this way, they can reach their desired point. Through this he wants to convey the message of endeavoring to his Nigerian society, which was completely damaged after the civil war.

After the war everything was damaged in this way; everyone was supposed to start their lives from the beginning. The bicycle exhibits the same. It was dug up and refurbished then Jonathan initiated his business and a new life along with his family. 

On the other hand, readers may find the symbol of egg rasher in the story. Egg rasher symbolizes the conflicts and violence in the post war times. Additionally, Jonathan was rewarded twenty pounds for turning over the rebel money. However, this rewarded money becomes the reason for the tragedy and threat for his family. Thieves arrived at his house dancing hundred pounds while Jonathan gave them this rewarded money to get rid of them.

Through this Achebe highlights that still violence and conflicts are present in the post war times. Though war has ended but it has harmed the society so deeply that its repercussions will haunt the society for long.

Achebe has pictured the military man who was demanding Jonathan’s bicycle. He describes him as a man of suspicious countenance with tattered uniform “disreputable rags” and worn out canvas shoes “toes peeping out of one blue and one brown canvas shoes”. Also his ranks were in an irregular pattern.

On the other hand, he depicts the debris when Jonathan rummages in order to gather things for his damaged house. He collects the “old zinc” , some woods and “soggy sheets of cardboard lying around in the neighborhood”.

Similarly, he described the morning of Jonathan’s family after the robbery at their house. They were all busy doing their work while neighbors were coming to sympathize with them. Jonathan was loading the “five-gallon demijohn to his bicycle carrier”. Moreover, his wife was perspiring before the open fire to cook “akara balls in a wide clay bowl of boiling oil” . Also his son was washing the wine bottles.

Literary devices

Achebe has used certain figurative devices in the story.

Readers may come across the word “Bournvita tins” which he has used to depict the ruthless colonialism of Britain over Africa It is used when Jonathan saw his former co-miner eating stale food and residue of bournvita tins. This depicts the apathetic attitude of colonizers towards it’s subjects.

Personification

One can see Achebe personifying the survival of Jonathan with happiness in the story “Happy survival!”. This expresses Jonathan’s emotions after war. He seems happy even after every tragedy he faced.

Further in the story, Jonathan’s house is personified with the humanly attribute “zinc house of no regrets”. This reflects the inner self of Jonathan who was having no remorse for his past.

Similarly, the knock of thieves is personified with the quality of being harsh and heavy “heaviest knocking”. Here it expresses the danger and violence that would be faced by Jonathan. Likewise, Achebe in order to specify the callousness of thieves group he personified it with “horrible chorus”.

Metaphors and Similes

Readers may also find the usage of metaphors and similes in the story. For instance, “heartless ruffian” was used for the thief who robbed the man before Jonathan. Achebe has used this to emphasize the unkindness of the robber. Moreover, Achebe has used the metaphor “oceanic crowd” to accentuate the number of people.

Likewise, Jonathan fortune is described through the “day of the windfall”. It depicts the mercy of God over Jonathan. In this way, he gets rewarded turning in the money of rebels.

Achebe emphasizes the sentiments of Jonathan through simile. He says “It was like Christmas for him”. This describes the joy for the reward he got.  Also he compares his joys with the excitement and happiness of Christmas day.

The title itself is ironic as it contradicts the concept of civil peace in the story. Achebe highlights the violence and incompetence of authorities which is in contrast with the title.

Throughout the story one can see Achebe using the refrain “Nothing puzzles God” . Through this he accentuates the hope. Also, the ways of Divine which a mortal can comprehend. The way God has shown his mercy over Jonathan.

Genre & Tone

“Civil Peace” is written in historical fiction. The overall tone used in the story is optimistic and hopeful.

Point of View

Achebe has used the third person limited point of view. Readers can explore the story through the thoughts and views of Jonathan.

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Civil Peace

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Discussion Questions

Achebe narrates the story from a third-person limited perspective focused on Jonathan Iwegbu , a victim of the civil war. How might the story be different if the same events were narrated from a different perspective?

How do you interpret the title “Civil Peace”? Consider the historical context , purpose, and irony .

Achebe wrote both fiction and nonfiction. What is gained or lost by exploring the experiences of individuals after the civil war in a short story rather than an essay?

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Home — Essay Samples — Social Issues — Civil Rights — Peace in Civil Society

Peace in Civil Society

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Published: Mar 25, 2024

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Civil Peace as Absence of War or Physical Conflict Essay

Introduction.

Civil peace can be described as a condition that is more than just the absence of war or any form of physical conflict. It goes to an extent that the contemplation of rising against the government is unimaginable; this results from a situation of lasting social, political, and economic stability. Civil peace is pursued on long-term basis and it involves the process of conflict resolution. The teams involved in creating peace and offering the civil peace services are engaged in wide-base activities that are performed by civilians in regions of conflict with a mission to widen the scope of local campaigners by achievements and presence. The whole process of peace-building entails resolving all forms of conflicts that come up using non-violent means; it also includes building peace and reconstructing the society. The establishment of civil peace is facilitated by peace workers who are trained on peace building process, aggressively creating awareness on the significance of nonviolent conflict resolution and creating a working relationship with local community members where conflicts arise.

It is argued that non-violence is the greatest disposition of mankind; it is the most appropriate way available to human kind in solving the conflicts and misunderstandings amongst the members of the society. It is important to note that the need for civil peace has not arisen out of the vacuum, it 9has come as a result of societal conflicts, which are actually social facts that must be tackled. Civil peace alternates with civil war or conflict. This case, the presence of one must mean the absence of the other. Both cannot exist as social facts simultaneously. This paper examines the claim of Thomas Hobbes with respect to establishment of civil peace.

The contribution of Hobbes to the establishment of Civil Peace and the Disposition of Mankind towards Fulfilling their Civil Duty

According to Thomas Hobbes the main concern for politics is civil peace as opposed to freedom; his main ideas indicate his concern for the political and social order. Moreover, he is apprehensive of how human kind can coexist in peace and keep away from the dangers and fears of civil disagreements. Hobbes has come up with what he believes are the best ways of solving civil strife amongst the members of the society. First, he proposes that human kind should agree to offer their obedience to an unaccountable sovereign authority. In this case, he argues that authority should be given to an individual or group of empowered individuals to make decisions on all political and social matters on behalf of all the members of the society. He argued that if this is not the case, then, there is what he describes as “A state of nature” that is closely linked to civil strife. He depicts this state of civil strife as a condition of universal insecurity in which all members of the society have genuine reasons to be fearful of violent death and also where it is impossible form rewarding human corporations.

Hobbes can be credited for his ideas on t he need for all societal members to submit to a government authority. His thoughts actually provoke the mind to reflect on what life would be in the absence of a sovereign government authority; the fact is that in the absence of a sovereign authority, the society would be ruled or rather guided by the forces of nature. But human beings have differing opinions and only tend to pursue personal interest. The personal interests are never consistent and one’s personal interests may not be what another person wants or likes. The result is that in the process of pursuing different personal interests, members of the society will mostly likely run into conflicts. Consequently, this would lead to extensive fear of violent deaths as Hobbes explains. The implication of Hobbes explanations is that in the state of nature everybody is right in his or her own way and makes judgments according to his or her own interest. In this case, it is impossible to find cooperation among the members of the society.

Even though it is clear that despite the establishment of sovereign authority that makes political and social decisions on behalf of the entire society there are still civil conflicts. Nonetheless, the conflicts that arise despite the existence of a sovereign authority cannot be compared to the kind of conflicts that would be if such an authority were not to exist. This is the point of success for Thomas Hobbes in his quest to establish civil peace amongst the members of the society.

In the state of nature there are no common guiding principles or laws with regards to how scarce resources can be distributed amongst the members of the society. Due to personally perceived rights and freedoms without any form of control or limitation some people within the society will be full of natural worries that other members will most likely invade or attack them (in this case people are assumed to act according to the rights of nature) (Finn, p. 51). In t his cases, the worried members will, rationally, decide to strike their perceived opponents first in a bid to protect themselves and incapacitate the likely attackers; this is an anticipatory defense mechanism. Moreover, conflicts will be facilitated by disagreements due to religious beliefs and principles and issues that pertain to moral judgments and the need for respect by every member of the society.

Despite his propositions, the world social systems are still full of conflicts and misunderstanding amongst the members of the society. The solutions he proposed seem not to work. It is notable that, through his ideologies, he has set precedence about the essentials of political life that has pervaded the current social status. Not so many people agree with his thesis that in order to resolve the political problems in the society, members should agree to regard an unaccountable sovereign person or body of individuals as their exclusive political authority. In the current world systems, it is evident that the established political authorities still requires a lot of justification.

In fact, the existing authorities are acknowledged by few societal members; besides, the political, economic and social inequalities vividly appear to be questionable and as a result, the feelings of mistrust amongst various social groups are common. Far from political authorities, the religious authorities in the world as a whole are also significantly disputed with regards to the roles they play in establishing and sustaining civil peace and human disposition to maintain. The whole issue can be addressed in terms of equality and rights for all members of the society, an idea that the thoughts of Hobbes heralded. With respect to this, the world is now a place where everybody is supposed to have certain rights and freedom which are regarded as the basic moral claims that should guard everybody’s indispensable interest. The questions that arise from this scenario regards the kind of a person or group of persons who determines these rights and freedom and who is entitled to enforce the rights and. The main concern here is the person or a sovereign body of individuals who are allowed to be empowered to exclusively wield the most significant political authority when the fundamental assumption is that everybody has the same prerogative (Matthews, p. 40).

The ideas of Hobbes are rooted on certain personal normative and empirical assumptions without which the ideas would be impracticable. He makes an assumption that members of the society are adequately comparable in their cognitive and physical characteristics, and that no one is not vulnerable and cannot expect to be capable of exerting domination over other members of the society. He also makes an assumption that people naturally avoid death and the need to protect their own lives is incredibly strong in the majority of the people. It is important to realize that while individuals possess local liking, their generosity is limited and generally the people have the tendency to embrace partiality; this is due to suspicion and lack of confidence in others; and it is a tendency that is most likely to be extremely strong in the case of the state of nature.

The most crucial point is that in the case of civil society, every person surrenders all his or her rights of nature to the established sovereign authority, but they retain their retain the right to preserve personal lives in situations of immediate death threats. This is in contravention of the aforementioned assumptions because once everybody surrenders his or her rights to the established sovereign authority a distinction is created between those who determine the rights and those whose rights have been limited by such a social contract. It means that the sovereign authority may misuse the powers and threaten the lives of the subjects. Consequently, the subjects are most likely to use the remaining right to defend their lives to rise against the established sovereign authority and hence still destabilize the social order.

It can be argued that Thomas Hobbes partially succeeded in his intention to the establishment of civil peace and disposition of mankind towards fulfilling their civil duty. The fact is that without the established social contract in which the members of the society regards an established sovereign authority as the sole decision maker in terms of political matters, people would live in the state of nature where everybody has the right to everything. In this case, everybody would make judgments according what is good or bad for him and as a result other members in the society, due to fear of possible attacks, would tend to strike first against their possible enemies; in the process, civil strife would be perpetuated. However, the tendency of the established sovereign body to violate the right of the members still leads to rebellion by the subjects and hence the perpetuation of a destabilized society. The social disorder is further facilitated by the inequalities amongst the people and the fact that only few people support the established sovereign authority; in other words, in the process of establishing the sovereign authority individuals with divergent opinions compete to exercise the powers and the losers are always against and mistrust the established authority and hence rally their supporters to incline towards rebellion. This consequently results into civil conflict.

Works Cited

• Finn, J. Stephen. “Thomas Hobbes and the politics of natural philosophy.” Continuum studies in British philosophy . New York: Continuum International Publishing Group, 2006.
• Matthews, R. Michael. The Scientific background to modern philosophy: selected readings . New York: Hackett Publishing, 1989.
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IvyPanda. (2022, June 17). Civil Peace as Absence of War or Physical Conflict. https://ivypanda.com/essays/civil-peace-as-absence-of-war-or-physical-conflict/

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This position performs professional engineering work on conventional engineering projects. This is an open and continuous announcement. See Additional Information section for more information. Applications will expire every 90 days. To remain active for consideration, applicants must resubmit their application. Positions may be filled at one or more of the duty locations included in this announcement. Final determination of the duty location will be made at the time of the job offer.

• Accepting applications

Open & closing dates

11/15/2023 to 09/30/2024

Pay rates vary depending on location and the salary shown is for the Rest of the U.S. See OPM.gov for additional information on pay rates.

Pay scale & grade

• Russellville, AR
• Flagstaff, AZ
• Overgaard, AZ
• Phoenix, AZ
• Show more locations (46)
• Springerville, AZ
• Williams, AZ
• Silver Springs, FL
• Winchester, KY
• Cadillac, MI
• Asheville, NC
• Pisgah Forest, NC
• Silver City, NM
• Baker City, OR
• Chemult, OR
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• Sedro Woolley, WA
• Vancouver, WA
• Walla Walla, WA
• Wenatchee, WA

Telework eligible

Yes—as determined by the agency policy.

Travel Required

Occasional travel - You may be expected to travel for this position.

Relocation expenses reimbursed

Yes—A recruitment or relocation incentive, or reimbursement of relocation expenses may be authorized at the discretion of management in accordance with agency policy.

Appointment type

Work schedule.

Competitive

Promotion potential

11 - Target grade of the position may vary based on duty location, please see "Additional Information" for more information.

Job family (Series)

0810 Civil Engineering

Supervisory status

Security clearance.

Not Required

Position sensitivity and risk

Non-sensitive (NS)/Low Risk

Trust determination process

Credentialing

Suitability/Fitness

Announcement number

24-POD3-OCR-0810-ENG-9-11DP

Control number

This job is open to.

U.S. Citizens, Nationals or those who owe allegiance to the U.S.

• The responsibilities listed below are at the full performance GS-11 level.
• Provides professional engineering input into the interdisciplinary planning process for natural resource development activities involving engineering projects.
• Develops and modifies civil engineering plans and specifications for new construction or to improve utility, quality of construction.
• Prepares original designs and preliminary and final layouts of projects such as road design, small bridges, retaining walls, major drainage structures, erosion control features, buildings, towers, small dams, and recreation sites.
• Prepares or supervises preparation of special design specifications, cost estimates, and complete design package.
• Prepares Environmental Analysis, Environmental Impact Statements, and special reports with regard to new or improved engineering construction.
• Responsible for contract compliance on assigned projects.
• Interprets Agency policy and contracts for contractor, and resolves problems relating to plans, specifications, materials, reports, etc.

Requirements

Conditions of employment.

• Must be a U.S. Citizen or National.
• Males born after 12-31-59 must be registered for Selective Service or exempt.
• Subject to satisfactory adjudication of background investigation and/or fingerprint check.
• Successful completion of one-year probationary period, unless previously served.
• Per Public Law 104-134 all Federal employees are required to have federal payments made by direct deposit to their financial institution.
• Successfully pass the E-Verify employment verification check. To learn more about E-Verify, including your rights and responsibilities, visit E-Verify.

Qualifications

See above for education that may be qualifying for the specific grade level.

Additional information

THIS IS AN OPEN CONTINUOUS ANNOUNCEMENT This type of announcement provides the Forest Service with a readily available source of applicants when vacancies occur. Eligibility and qualifications will be verified when there is a vacancy for the location and grade for which you applied. Additional duty locations may be added throughout the life of this announcement. It is the responsibility of the applicant to periodically review this vacancy announcement for additional duty locations. You must update your application to include all locations for which you want to be considered. You will not be considered for duty locations not selected in your application. The target grade of the positions may vary by duty location. Information on specific locations where jobs are being filled and the dates when applications are due for these locations can be found at https://fsoutreach.gdcii.com/Outreach. The USDA Forest Service has legislative authority to recruit and fill Permanent (Career/Career-Conditional), Temporary, and Term Appointments under the USDA Demonstration Project. Under this authority, any U.S. citizen may apply. Career Transition Assistance Plan (CTAP), Reemployment Priority List (RPL), or Interagency Career Transition Assistance Plan (ICTAP) : To exercise selection priority for this vacancy, CTAP/RPL/ICTAP candidates must meet the basic eligibility requirements and all selective factors. CTAP/ICTAP eligibles must meet the agency's definition for a quality candidate as provided in the How You Will Be Evaluated section of this announcement to be considered. If you are selected for a position with further promotion potential, you will be placed under a career development plan, and may be non-competitively promoted if you successfully complete the requirements and if recommended by management. However, promotion is not guaranteed. This position may be eligible to telework up to four days per week, based upon the duties of the position. This position may also be eligible for flexible work arrangements as determined by agency policy and any applicable collective bargaining agreements. The Forest Service may use certain incentives and hiring flexibilities, currently offered by the Federal government, to attract highly qualified candidates. Additional information is available at https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/pay-leave/pay-and-leave-flexibilities-for-recruitment-and-retention/ Salary wage as shown is for Rest of the U.S. Final salary will be determined at the time of selection dependent on the duty location For more information, refer to the Office of Personnel Management, Salary and Wages web page. Positions filled from this announcement may be a bargaining or a non-bargaining unit position represented by either NFFE, AFGE or NAGE.. Forest Service daycare facilities may be available. Government Housing may be available. We may select from this announcement or any other source to fill one or more vacancies.

A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new window Learn more about federal benefits .

Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.

How You Will Be Evaluated

You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.

You will be evaluated in accordance with the category rating procedure as defined in the USDA Demonstration Project Plan. Applicants who meet the basic minimum qualification requirements established for the position will be placed in the Eligible category. You will be further evaluated against criteria for placement in the Quality category. This evaluation is based on the level of your experience, education, and/or training as determined by your responses to the Assessment Questionnaire. Individuals with veterans' preference are listed ahead of applicants who do not have veterans' preference within each category. Note: If, after reviewing your resume and/or supporting documentation, a determination is made that you have inflated your qualifications and or experience, your score may be adjusted to more accurately reflect your abilities, or you may be found ineligible. Please follow all instructions carefully. Errors or omissions may affect your rating. Providing inaccurate information on Federal documents could be grounds for non-selection or disciplinary action up to including removal from the Federal service. To view the application form, visit: https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/12200533

As a new or existing federal employee, you and your family may have access to a range of benefits. Your benefits depend on the type of position you have - whether you're a permanent, part-time, temporary or an intermittent employee. You may be eligible for the following benefits, however, check with your agency to make sure you're eligible under their policies.

The following documents are required for your applicant package to be complete. Our office cannot be responsible for incompatible software, illegible fax transmissions, delays in the mail service, your system failure, etc. Encrypted documents will not be accepted. Failure to submit required, legible documents may result in loss of consideration. Resume that includes : 1) personal information such as name, address, contact information; 2) education; 3) detailed work experience related to this position as described in the responsibilities section including work schedule, hours worked per week, dates of employment; title, series, grade (if applicable); 4) supervisor's phone number and whether or not the supervisor may be contacted for a reference check; 5) other qualifications. If education is required or you are using education to qualify, you must submit a copy of your college transcripts. An unofficial copy is sufficient with the application; however, if you are selected, you will be required to submit official transcripts prior to entering on duty. Education must have been successfully obtained from an accredited school, college or university. If any education was completed at a foreign institute, you must submit with your application evidence that the institute was appropriately accredited by an accrediting body recognized by the U.S. Department of Education as equivalent to U.S. education standards. There are private organizations that specialize in this evaluation and a fee is normally associated with this service. All transcripts must be in English or include an English translation. If claiming veteran's preference, you must submit a DD214, Certificate of Release from Active Duty, which shows dates of service and discharge under honorable conditions. If currently on active duty you must submit a certification of expected discharge or release from active duty service under honorable conditions not later than 120 days after the date the certification is submitted. Veteran's preference must be verified prior to appointment. Without this documentation, you will not receive veteran's preference and your application will be evaluated based on the material(s) submitted. If claiming 10-point veteran's preference you must provide the DD214 or certification requirements (see above bullet), plus the proof of entitlement of this preference as listed on the SF-15 Application for 10-point Veterans' Preference. The SF-15 should be included but is not required. Failure to submit these documents could result in the determination that there is insufficient documentation to support your claim for 10-point preference. For more information on veterans' preference visit FEDSHIREVETS . Surplus or displaced employees eligible for CTAP, RPL, or ICTAP priority must provide: proof of eligibility (RIF separation notice, notice of proposed removal for declining a transfer of function or directed reassignment to another commuting area, notice of disability annuity termination), SF-50 documenting separation (as applicable), and your most recent SF-50 noting position, grade level, and duty location with your application per 5 CFR 330.

Please view Tips for Applicants - a guide to the Forest Service application process. Read the entire announcement and all instructions before you begin. You must complete this application process and submit all required documents electronically by 11:59p.m. Eastern Time (ET) on the closing date of this announcement. Applying online is highly encouraged. We are available to assist you during business hours (8:00a.m. - 4:00p.m. (MST), Monday - Friday. If applying online poses a hardship, contact the Agency Contact listed below well before the closing date for an alternate method. All hardship application packages must be returned to Human Resources no later than noon ET on the closing date of the announcement in order for it to be entered into the system prior to the closing date. This agency provides reasonable accommodation to applicants with disabilities on a case-by-case basis. Contact the Agency Contact to request this. To begin, in USAJOBS click "Apply" and follow the instructions to attach your resume and required documents, complete the assessment questionnaire, and submit your application. NOTE : Please verify that documents you are uploading from USAJOBS transfer into the Agency's staffing system as there is a limitation to the number of documents that can be transferred. However, once in the Agency's staffing system, you will have the opportunity to upload additional documents. Uploaded documents must be less than 5MB and in one of the following document formats: GIF, JPG, JPEG, PNG, RTF, PDF, TXT or Word (DOC or DOCX). Do not upload Adobe Portfolio documents because they are not viewable.

Agency contact information

Hrm contact center.

1-877-372-7248 X2

[email protected]

Your application will be reviewed to verify that you meet the eligibility and qualification requirements for the position prior to issuing referral lists to the selecting official. If further evaluation or interviews are required, you will be contacted. Log in to your USAJOBS account to check your application status. You must choose to turn on email notifications in your USAJOBS profile if you want to receive important email notifications that may impact your applicant experience (e.g. If you start an application and do not submit it prior to the closing date, USAJOBS will send an email reminder that the closing date is approaching and your application is in an incomplete status). Multiple positions may be filled from this announcement.

The Federal hiring process is set up to be fair and transparent. Please read the following guidance.

• Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Policy
• Criminal history inquiries
• Reasonable accommodation policy
• Financial suitability
• Selective Service
• New employee probationary period
• Signature and false statements
• Privacy Act
• Social security number request

Required Documents

How to apply, fair & transparent.

This job originated on www.usajobs.gov . For the full announcement and to apply, visit www.usajobs.gov/job/760384100 . Only resumes submitted according to the instructions on the job announcement listed at www.usajobs.gov will be considered.

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To Appease Protestors, Universities Promise To Violate Civil Rights Laws

Senior Legal Fellow, Edwin Meese III Center

Key Takeaways

For the promise of peace, Northwestern and Rutgers have promised to violate the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

Title VI forbids discrimination based on race, color, or national origin in any program or activity receiving federal funds.

Lawsuits are likely coming, and the schools will probably lose.

To date, at least three universities have caved to their anti-Israel mobs. Northwestern , Rutgers , and the University of Minnesota have reached agreements with the students and activists who have occupied their campuses.

For the promise of peace, Northwestern and Rutgers have promised to violate the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Minnesota apparently bargained better because it got away with a promise only to consider violating the Act.

The suspect parts of the agreements are vows to dole out admission, scholarships, faculty positions, and other resources based on Palestinian or Arab ethnicity or on Muslim religious belief.

Northwestern promises to fund two professorships for Palestinians, give five full-ride scholarships for Palestinian students, and build a house for middle eastern and Muslim students. Rutgers promises to admit and give scholarships to ten Palestinian students, build an Arab Cultural Center, hire additional diversity, equity, and inclusion staff with “cultural competency” with Arabs, Muslims, and Palestinians, and consider hiring faculty for a Middle East Studies department.

>>>  Spoiled Children Have Seized the Colleges We Pay For

Minnesota, meanwhile, gestures more vaguely at including Palestinian faculty as part of its “scholars at risk” program and at other ways to “express and evidence support” for Palestinian students.

Each of these promises has different civil rights implications. Let’s explore each in turn.

To start, the Civil Rights Act of 1964 includes two relevant parts. Title VI forbids discrimination based on race, color, or national origin in any program or activity receiving federal funds (all three universities qualify). And Title VII forbids discrimination based on race, color, national origin, or religion with respect to any “terms, conditions, or privileges of employment.” Title VII also makes it illegal for employers to “limit, segregate, or classify” their employers on those bases.

Turning first to the guaranteed admissions for Palestinian students, we already know from the Supreme Court’s decision in  Students for Fair Admissions v. Harvard  that schools cannot give racial or ethnic preferences in admissions. But even before that decision, schools were prohibited from using numerical quotas. Rutgers has thus opened itself up to lawsuits by private plaintiffs and the federal government.

Next, the scholarships likely violate Title VI because the schools promise to make Palestinian ethnicity a requirement. Title VI is all about disparate treatment. The question is whether a federally funded program or activity treats people differently because of their race or national origin. That’s obvious from Northwestern’s and Rutgers’s promise to make these scholarships available only to Palestinians.

Less obvious, however, is whether the schools can convince a court that a scholarship is not a “program” or “activity.” As far as I am aware, only one court has directly answered that question . But—bad news for Northwestern and Rutgers—it held that scholarships are covered by Title VI.

Incidentally, that conclusion is also probably the best application of  Students for Fair Admissions  to the scholarship context. The Supreme Court there was not concerned with deciding whether the admissions process was a “program” or “activity.” Rather, as Justice Neil Gorsuch suggested in his concurring opinion, Title VI applies to anything that a school does once it agrees to take federal money. Whether the institution labels its activities a “program,” a “scholarship,” or something else is immaterial.

That brings us to the schools’ promises to create houses and cultural centers for middle eastern, Arab, and Muslim students and a Middle Eastern Studies department. The question will be intent. Are the resources intended only for Palestinian, Arab, and Muslim students? That the schools have singled out those groups in these agreements is strong evidence that they are. So too are reports that Jewish student groups were excluded from these negotiations.

But more proof will come as the schools build and staff these programs. Israelis are middle easterners. Will they be permitted to use these programs? Will they be hired into them? Will the people who are hired into them give the same support to Israeli and Jewish students that they do to Palestinian and Muslim students? If the answer to any of these questions is “no,” that’s strong evidence of discriminatory intent.

Hiring faculty and DEI officials brings us into the realm of Title VII. Setting positions aside for people of certain races, origins, or religions is unlawful. That’s the easy case. The harder case is whether “cultural competency with Palestinians, Arabs, and Muslims” is code for someone who has one or more of those protected characteristics. Again, could the position be given to an Israeli, a Jew, or a Christian? Could someone who is not Arab, Palestinian, or Muslim have the “cultural competency” that the schools seek?

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Given the context in which these assurances were made and the intellectual commitments of left-wing school administrators, a reasonable person would be justified in suspecting that the answer is “no.” If that assumption is right, the question is, how well can the university hide it?

The same goes for staffing a Middle Eastern Studies department. Will anyone who is not a Palestinian, an Arab, or a Muslim be seriously considered? Would a Zionist Israeli Jew be considered? The occupying protestors would surely show up again if one was, and that’s exactly what the schools are trying to avoid with this promise.

In short, all signs point towards discriminatory intent and so suggest that the schools have, in several ways, paid for peace with a promise to break the civil rights laws.

Perhaps the schools, sophisticated and well-lawyered though they are, didn’t think of it. Perhaps they’re so lost to an ideology obsessed with race, ethnicity, and oppression that they can’t imagine that the law sees things differently. Or perhaps the schools did know, and they hope that the law will provide them with a way out of agreements that they didn’t have the courage to oppose.

Either way, lawsuits are likely coming, and the schools will probably lose.

This piece originally appeared in The Federalist Society

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Andrew Tate served with civil proceedings papers on behalf of four British women

The four women, who allege Tate raped and assaulted them, were the subject of a police investigation in Hertfordshire that was closed in 2019.

Wednesday 8 May 2024 18:06, UK

Andrew Tate has been served with civil proceedings papers in Romania on behalf of four British women, their lawyers have said.

Lawyers on behalf of the four alleged victims have said they are bringing a case against the social media influencer at the High Court in the UK after the Crown Prosecution Service decided not to prosecute in 2019.

The four women allege Tate raped and assaulted them and are seeking "damages for injuries they suffered as a result".

Tate, 37, is accused alongside his brother Tristan Tate.

A representative for the Tate brothers said they "unequivocally deny all allegations", and are "fully committed to challenging these accusations with unwavering determination and resolve".

Three of the British accusers were the subject of an investigation by Hertfordshire Constabulary.

The Hertfordshire investigation was closed in 2019.

In a statement, McCue Jury and Partners, the law firm representing the four women, said: "Three of the women bringing the civil action reported that Tate had raped and physically assaulted them to the UK police in 2014/2015.

"After a four-year investigation, Hertfordshire Police sent the case to the CPS for a charging decision. In 2019, the CPS decided not to prosecute.

"Despite additional evidence, the CPS have declined the women's recent requests to review its decision."

Read more: Football club defends decision to refund Tate donation Tate to regain access to supercars and properties Andrew Tate's request for 'emergency visit' to London rejected

It comes after a court in Romania ruled last month that a trial can start in the influencer's separate human trafficking case , which also accuses him of rape and forming a criminal gang to sexually exploit women.

Tate and his brother were initially arrested in December 2022 near Bucharest.

They will be extradited to the UK after the proceedings in Romania, after Bedfordshire Police secured a European arrest warrant for further separate allegations of rape and human trafficking.

Those allegations, which the two brothers "unequivocally deny", date back to 2012 and 2015.

In a statement in March, the Bedfordshire force said: "As part of an ongoing investigation into allegations of rape and human trafficking, Bedfordshire Police has obtained a European arrest warrant for two men in their 30s.

"We are working with authorities in Romania as part of this investigation and will provide an update in due course."

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The Fire Next Time by James Baldwin audiobook review – from the civil rights frontline

Law & Order’s Jesse L Martin narrates two powerful essays examining the Black experience in the US, the first in a series marking the author’s centenary year

F irst published in 1963 at the height of the US civil rights movement, James Baldwin’s The Fire Next Time comprises two astonishing essays examining the Black experience in the United States and the struggle against racial injustice.

The first, My Dungeon Shook, takes the form of a letter to Baldwin’s 14-year-old nephew, and outlines “the root of my dispute with my country … You were born into a society which spelled out with brutal clarity, and in as many ways as possible, that you were a worthless human being. You were not expected to aspire to excellence: you were expected to make peace with mediocrity.”

The second, Down at the Cross, is a polemic examining the relationship between race and religion, and finds Baldwin reflecting on his Harlem childhood, his encounters with racist police, and a spiritual crisis at the age of 14, which, triggered by his fears of getting drawn into a life of crime, “helped to hurl me into the church”. There, he was filled with anguish “like one of those floods that devastate countries, tearing everything down, tearing children from their parents and lovers from each other”.

The essays are narrated by the Law & Order actor Jesse L Martin, who highlights the rhythmic nature of Baldwin’s prose, and channels his anger and devastation at the unceasing suffering of Black Americans. This audiobook is one of several new recordings of Baldwin’s writing being published over the next few months, to mark the influential author’s centenary year, which also include Go Tell It to the Mountain, Another Country, Giovanni’s Room and If Beale Street Could Talk.

Available via Penguin Audio, 2hr 26min

Further listening

Fire Rush Jacqueline Crooks, Penguin Audio, 11hr 3min Leonie Elliott narrates this coming-of-age story set in the late 1970s about the daughter of a Caribbean immigrant who finds kindred spirits and thrilling new sounds at an underground reggae club.

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Two Sisters Blake Morrison, Harper Collins, 10hr 28min A tender account of the life of Gill, Morrison’s younger sister who died from heart failure caused by alcohol abuse, and his half-sister, Josie. Read by the author.

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It’s Not Too Late for Solomon Islands’ Truth and Reconciliation Commission

Despite nearly a decade of delays, the commission’s final report can still be a powerful tool for peace.

Monday, May 6, 2024

/ READ TIME: 7 minutes

By: Benjamin Afuga

Established in 2008, the Solomon Islands Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) was tasked with investigating the country’s civil conflict that killed 200 people and displaced more than 20,000 others between 1998 and 2003. The commission was the first of its kind in the Pacific Islands region, and its proponents hoped it could heal people’s lasting trauma by addressing human rights violations, promoting national unity and fostering reconciliation.

I served as one of the local managers for the TRC and was responsible for coordinating the collection of testimonies from victims, witnesses and even some perpetrators of the violence. I witnessed firsthand the multifaceted benefits of the TRC process — as well as the government’s efforts to undercut the final report in 2013.

The unofficial release came after extensive delays from the government, which declined to officially discuss the report in parliament until last year . This has unfortunately stifled consideration of the report’s recommendations, as the government has sought to limit access to the original copy.

More than a decade since it was completed, there is still immense potential in the TRC final report . It confronts the wounds of the past, yes. But it also holds the seeds for a harmonious future — and offers an opportunity for Solomon Islands to redefine its narrative and provide a pathway to healing and reconciliation.

Benefits of the TRC Process

The TRC process provided a unique space for individuals to share their deeply personal stories of the conflict. The TRC documented a rich and comprehensive narrative in its database, which included 2,362 individual statements, 11 public and 102 closed hearings, and hundreds of submissions from people in conflict-affected areas.

In collecting testimonies, we found the therapeutic aspect of storytelling became a cornerstone for healing, allowing survivors, victims and even some violent actors, such as militants, to voice their experiences in a supportive environment that allowed them to feel heard.

Another essential aspect of the TRC process was that survivors, witnesses, victims and actors weren’t just contributing to a historical record — the TRC publicly acknowledged the profound suffering they had endured. This acknowledgment is crucial for validating experiences and building a foundation for genuine reconciliation, and, of course, learning from what happened to avoid repetitions of violence.

The Report’s Unofficial Release

As the key independent historical record, the TRC final report is a vital tool for shaping the collective memory of the nation. It was meant to give a full accounting of the conflict so that Solomon Islanders could collectively heal and forge a better future through the report’s recommendations.  

However, the final report was shrouded in the ambiguity of an unofficial release.

The report was finished in February 2012 and was submitted to the Solomon Islands government. However, the government did not release the report to the public or parliament as required by law. Various reasons were floated for the delay, but the report named several actors who went on to become politicians and highlighted the need for political reform.

After more than a year of waiting, there was still no official word on the report’s future. At the time, I was the chief administrator and moderator of the popular social media discussion platform Forum Solomon Islands International (FSII). I was approached by the TRC report’s editor, Bishop Terry Brown. He said he had grown frustrated by the delay, as he believed the report belonged to the people of Solomon Islands, not to the government of the day. He told me he intended to leak the report despite the government’s delay.

A week later, in April 2013, Bishop Brown sent a copy of the report to approximately 60 individuals as well as selected media outlets and public forums — including FSII. This marked a pivotal moment in the unfolding narrative of the TRC report, which Bishop Brown hoped would set the stage for its eventual public discussion, scrutiny and the implementation of its recommendations.

However, rather than acknowledge and release this now-leaked report, the government, then led by Prime Minister Gordon Darcy Lilo, further delayed action. It wasn’t until over a decade later, in 2023, that the report was ever officially acknowledged when Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare decided to present a condensed report of the TRC to parliament.

The decision by subsequent governments to ignore the final report raised concerns about the depth of officials’ commitment to the TRC and its recommendations. Many worried that even the abbreviated version, while potentially more digestible, may not provide a thorough understanding of the TRC findings for leaders to assess.

Citizens and civil society groups have rallied over the years to force the government to table the full report in parliament for discussion, but these moves were ultimately unsuccessful. During the debate in parliament on the condensed report, members only raised the need to address the most serious violent incidents and to address the lack of development and good governance in conflict affected areas, but left out numerous other recommendations and findings.

Recommendations That Went Unacknowledged

This is unfortunate, as the full TRC report (the version that was leaked) is a treasure trove of valuable recommendations — each a potential building block for a more harmonious society.

Key recommendations included a national peace and reconciliation commission to oversee and coordinate the implementation of TRC recommendations. Additionally, the report proposed a national reparations program, alongside more criminal accountability, in acknowledgement that many victims and survivors have been given no resolution or compensation for crimes committed against them during the conflict.

Other key recommendations included reforms to the political system — particularly in support of provincial-level development and decision-making — to prevent local grievances from becoming a justification for violence. There were also measures to improve Solomon Islands’ democracy and the transparency of governance to stem corruption and misuse of power.

The security sector, particularly courts and police, were given a set of recommendations to promote more professionalism, impartiality and respect for human rights. There were also recommendations on addressing violence against women and increasing youth employment.

To prevent a recurrence of violence, the TRC report placed emphasis on fixing Solomon Islands’ poor outcomes for health, education and sustainable development — as well as addressing violence against women and increasing youth employment. The report advised that peacebuilding practices should be integrated with improvements to all of these programs.

Where Does the TRC Go From Here?

While it was written more than a decade ago, the TRC report is not a static document. Instead, it can be a catalyst for change — and there are still ways to harness its potential for advancing peace.

Firstly, more attention must be dedicated to the report’s release and spread, especially by digital means. The controversial decision to leak the report ensures there is a full, unofficial version available online. But finding it might not always be straightforward or simple, especially given the limits of internet access in some parts of Solomon Islands. Officials and civil society should dedicate time and resources to ensuring all citizens have access to the report.

Secondly, to get young people engaged in the TRC story and recommendations, it would be good to integrate the TRC report into educational curricula, ensuring that future generations are aware of the nation’s history and develop a commitment to peace.

Thirdly, while churches, provincial governments and some tribes have engaged in reconciliation, there are many people for whom the conflict issues are unresolved, requiring healing workshops and programs based on TRC recommendations. This means providing more spaces for dialogue, reconciliation and community building.

Finally, the international community can support the TRC by helping to fully monitor, evaluate and implement the TRC recommendations. It’s important that these collaborations involve both local and international stakeholders to ensure accountability, but it would allow Solomon Islands to draw on the experiences of other nations that have undergone similar processes.

It is crucial for both governmental and community leaders to work hand-in-hand, fostering an environment of openness and inclusivity. The implementation of the report's recommendations requires a collaborative effort, bringing together diverse perspectives and experiences to ensure that the healing process is comprehensive and reaches every corner of society.

The TRC report serves as a testament to the resilience of Solomon Islands and its people in the face of adversity. Embracing the values of constructive dialogue, understanding and empathy that are embedded in the TRC report will be instrumental in building a society where the lessons of history guide the path toward a shared and prosperous future.

Benjamin Afuga is the founder, chief administrator and moderator of Yumi Toktok Forum — Solomon Islands’ most popular online discussion Facebook page.

The views expressed in this publication are those of the author(s).

PUBLICATION TYPE: Analysis