This paper was presented and published in International Studies Association Annual Convention, At Atlanta, USA, Volume: 57.

The goal of this paper is to show that architecture and urban design should be considered part of peacebuilding efforts aimed at helping find long-term sustainable solutions to conflict by fostering ownership, cohesion, and inclusion. The paper argues that recent developments in the field of peacebuilding and development, and particularly the adoption of the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, which have the motto “No one should be left behind,” make a strong case for addressing the spatial, specifically urban needs of people living in cities inside conflict-affected countries. It goes on to point to policy gaps and to the practical challenges involved in devising urban solutions for cities in conflict. Finally, the paper claims that finding creative and innovative ways to
prioritize sustainability in conflict-affected cities is not only possible, but a necessary part of addressing conflict. Our arguments are supported by examples from the field, focused specifically on the case of Kabul.

Read here.