In The Middle:
Non-official Mediation in Violent Situations
by Adam Curle
Proposals for an International Mediation
Centre
This centre should be set up as a
non-governmental organisation (NGO) having consultative status with the UN. The first step
towards establishing it might be for one of the bodies directly involved or else
interested in mediation to convene a working party of concerned individuals and groups
representatives.
If it seems reasonable to proceed with the
project, this group would (probably) suggest broad guidelines for the further development
of the centre. It would obviously be premature to attempt to define the size,
administrative structure or agenda of this centre; this could only evolve in a precise
form after its establishment. Nevertheless, it seems safe to predict that the following
functions would form part of its essential activities.
To develop criteria for the desirability and
feasibility of the type of mediation discussed in this essay.
To maintain an overview of the global scene in
order to identify situations where mediation was or might become desirable.
To compile a register of persons with
experience in mediation and having qualifications, such as a language skill, appropriate
for mediation in particular regions or circumstances.
To recruit and launch mediation teams when the
directors considered it appropriate, and to give them backstopping assistance when they
were in the field.
To raise financial resources for its
operations, including funds for 'sabbaticals' to free persons in employment to carry out
mediation.
To provide any necessary training or
preparation relevant to mediation, especially with a view to ensuring a flow of younger
people into the work. At present there is virtually no systematic training for mediation.
Most mediators, who come from very varied academic and work backgrounds, have picked up
their abilities 'on the job'. It is most important to find and impart better means of
preparing women and men for this demanding task.
To carry out research on the field of conflict
in general and on mediation and training for mediation in particular.
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