Convivence. Beyond cohabitation and conviviality · Robert Lanquar

Convivence is a relatively new term in English. It derives from the Spanish word convivencia, which emerged in the 12th century. In 2004, the Académie française included the related term “convivance” in its dictionary. The concept refers to a situation in which different communities and social groups live together while maintaining relationships of neighbourliness, harmony and exchange.

Through Resolution 72/130, the United Nations General Assembly proclaimed 16 May as the International Day of Living Together in Peace, with the aim of promoting peace, tolerance, inclusion, understanding and solidarity.

This book explores the main issues and challenges related to convivence at local, regional, national and international levels. Our fragmented world faces major crises: climate change, migration, growing inequalities, geopolitical tensions, rising nationalism, identity conflicts and racism.

The aim of the book is to show that the pursuit of convivence may become one of the major ethical challenges of the future. Through a series of scenarios, Robert Lanquar examines possible paths towards peace and solidarity, beyond mere coexistence and conviviality.

This thought-provoking work will be of interest to researchers and students in Peace Studies, Sociology and International Relations, as well as to those working on community issues within governments, NGOs and the private sector.