Legitimacy and Hybrid Peace Governance in Post-Conflict Societies: the Challenges of Muslim Mindanao, Philippines

The establishment of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao ( barmm ) in 2019 (re)configured the rules of the political game in the historically conflict-ridden region, with both former revolutionary forces and traditional clans still figuring out how to adapt to them. Therein lies the essence of studying the elements and structures that sustain, albeit imperfectly, its political existence. In this article, the significance of legitimacy and hybrid peace governance in shaping barmm ’s post-conflict order will be examined. It will be underscored that legitimacy is an indispensable component in building resilient peace and governance systems. Understanding barmm ’s case through the lens of hybrid peace governance also helps us acknowledge the political realities in the region, where conflicts and stability co-exist as its defining features following decades of discontent. As barmm navigates through a critical period, key actors must adjust to the new political landscape and govern through ballots instead of bullets.