It includes measures to address ongoing conflicts and usually comprises diplomatic action and mediation to bring hostile parties to a negotiated agreement.

It includes efforts undertaken at the end of conflict to halt overt violence, lessen its counter effects and prevent the recurrence of disturbances.

It is sometimes used as an umbrella term covering all aspects of peace operations.

It has evolved from predominantly military model of observing cease- fires and separation of forces after inter-state wars, to incorporate a complex model of many elements –military, police and civilian– working together to help lay the foundations for sustainable peace.