Press Release: ACT Implements Advanced Training on Breaking Deadlock in Community Mediation Processes

As part of the project “Mediation as a Tool for Peacebuilding”, ACT Conflict Resolution Organization organized a training session aimed at strengthening participants’ capacities in managing mediation processes, with a particular focus on addressing deadlock situations and breakdowns in negotiations between conflicting parties. This activity comes within the project’s efforts to empower youth and community leaders with the skills and tools necessary to foster dialogue and build community peace.

The session reviewed the concept of mediation and its core principles, while also discussing several community issues that may pose challenges for mediators. It emphasized the importance of understanding the social and cultural contexts surrounding conflicts, thereby enhancing mediators’ ability to manage dialogue effectively and fairly.

The training provided practical mechanisms for dealing with stalled negotiations, especially when parties become entrenched in their positions or suspend talks. A set of tools and skills was introduced to help reopen communication channels and increase the chances of reaching common solutions.

The session concluded with a practical exercise that allowed participants to apply the acquired skills in a realistic simulation of a community conflict, strengthening their readiness to handle similar situations in everyday life. Through such activities, the project contributes to expanding the network of local mediators and reinforcing their role in supporting social cohesion and peacebuilding.

It is worth noting that the “Mediation as a Tool for Peacebuilding” project and its activities are implemented with the generous support of the Swiss Ministry of Foreign Affairs.