1. Introduction

This introductory chapter provides an overview of the book including the objectives, the focuses and the significance of the study. It also provides definitions of key concepts used in this volume, such as ‘relational dialogue platforms,’ ‘bridge-builders’ and ‘hybrid peacebuilding.’ It puts forward a main argument of the study; that is, institutionalisation of a set of multi-layered platforms for continued dialogues across different levels and sectors in a contested society as well as between local stakeholders and outside intervenors is a key to effective and sustainable peacebuilding. It also argues that hybrid peacebuilding should be understood as a continuous process of negotiation and mediation among the relevant stakeholders both within and outside the contested society to define, refine, shape and reshape a consensus about the emerging order.