Resilient Local Governance and Conflict Management in a Changing World

Abstract

Local governance systems are increasingly confronted with multidimensional pressures ranging from climate crises, social polarization, and technological disruption to economic volatility and political instability. This paper examines how resilient local governance enhances the effectiveness of conflict management in dynamic and uncertain environments. Drawing upon comparative insights from Southeast Asia and global literature indexed in Scopus, the study identifies three major findings: (1) resilience-based governance and local conflict management are conceptually intertwined through adaptability, inclusiveness, and learning; (2) key enabling factors include decentralization, participation, transparency, institutional learning, and multilevel coordination, while major constraints involve political interference, fiscal limitations, and institutional fragmentation; and (3) the study proposes a Resilient Local Conflict Governance (RLCG) Framework integrating adaptive capacity, inclusivity, and transparency as foundations for sustainable peace. The paper concludes with policy recommendations for strengthening local institutions to manage conflicts proactively, equitably, and collaboratively.