Conflict Resolution One of the Keys to World Peace

I’d like to introduce you to the Conflict Resolution Network. I met Stella Cornelius who started the Conflict Resolution Network. She also was on a UN Committee during the International Year of Peace (1986) and was involved with numerous initiatives to promote a peaceful world. She believed wholeheartedly in a win/win approach, she dedicated her entire life to this work.

At its base conflict resolution is about being open to the ‘other party’ and being willing to solve a problem with the objective of a win/win for both parties. It is not about winning it is about learning.

I would love this to be mandatory in every Primary, Secondary school and Tertiary colleges or Universities, Conflict Resolution is fundamental for developing harmonious cooperative communities. Few are trained in these skills. I can assure you the world would change overnight if they were.

You can obtain the links by visiting the website, it is excellent material and it is free. That is the sign of people truly dedicated to peace.

I will post a few choice cuts in the next blog or two. Links found at:
http://www.crnhq.org/pages.php?pID=10

12 Skills Summary

Conflict Resolution Skills

1. The win/win approach

How can we solve this as partners rather than opponents?

2. Creative response

Transform problems into creative opportunities.

3. Empathy

Develop communication tools to build rapport. Use listening to clarify understanding.

4. Appropriate assertiveness

Apply strategies to attack the problem not the person.

5. Co-operative power

Eliminate “power over” to build “power with” others.

6. Managing emotions

Express fear, anger, hurt and frustration wisely to effect change.

7. Willingness to Resolve

Name personal issues that cloud the picture.

8. Mapping the conflict

Define the issues needed to chart common needs and concerns.

9. Development of options

Design creative solutions together.

10. Introduction to negotiation

Plan and apply effective strategies to reach agreement.

11. Introduction to mediation

Help conflicting parties to move towards solutions.

12. Broadening perspectives

Three articles on running meetings in conflict resolving mode.