Faith-Based Organizations and Relationship Transformation in Peacebuilding: Evidence from Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo

Armed conflicts often erode social trust and weaken relationships within communities, making social cohesion a critical challenge in peacebuilding efforts. Faith-Based Organizations (FBOs) have long been recognized as important actors in conflict-affected societies due to their moral authority and close engagement with local communities. However, limited research has examined how FBOs contribute to relationship transformation, a central component of conflict transformation theory, particularly in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). This study investigates the role of FBOs in facilitating relationship transformation in Eastern DRC. Using a qualitative research design, data were collected through 44 key informant interviews and five focus group discussions conducted in Goma between August and December 2024. Additional data were obtained through document analysis of reports from organizations such as MONUSCO and the International Crisis Group.The findings reveal that FBOs promote relationship transformation through four main approaches: mediation and dialogue; peace education and civic awareness; trauma healing and reconciliation; and the provision of social services to rebuild trust among conflict-affected communities. Despite these contributions, challenges such as weak institutional coordination, limited resources, and exclusionary practices constrain their effectiveness. The study concludes that FBOs play a vital role in grassroots peacebuilding. However, their impact can be strengthened through enhanced collaboration with state institutions, greater organizational capacity, and more inclusive approaches that transcend denominational boundaries.