What are the Skills used in resolving inter-communal conflicts?

Answer Details

Skills used in resolving inter-communal conflicts

Inter-communal conflicts are disputes between two or more communities, often over land, boundaries, chieftaincy, religion or resources. Resolving them peacefully requires the following skills:

1. Communication (dialogue) skills: The ability to talk and listen effectively so that each community can state its grievances clearly and the parties understand one another instead of resorting to violence.
2. Negotiation skills: The ability to bargain and make reasonable give-and-take proposals so that both communities reach an agreement in which each side gains something.
3. Mediation skills: The ability of a neutral third party to bring the warring communities together, guide their discussion and help them arrive at a peaceful settlement.
4. Active listening and empathy: Paying full attention to the other side and trying to see the matter from their point of view, which reduces suspicion and anger.
5. Tolerance and patience: Accepting the differences (religious, ethnic, cultural) between the communities and remaining calm even when provoked.
6. Compromise (accommodation) skills: The willingness of each community to drop some of its demands and accept a middle position for the sake of peace.
7. Problem-solving and critical-thinking skills: The ability to identify the real cause of the conflict and work out practical solutions rather than treating only the symptoms.
8. Emotional control (self-management): The ability to manage anger and control one's temper so that discussions do not break down into fresh fighting.
9. Impartiality (fairness): Treating both communities equally and justly so that the settlement is seen as balanced and acceptable to all.