Conflict generates practical and emotional divisions within and between societies. It creates environments where there are extremely limited opportunities to meet with the ‘other side’, and where negative stereotypes and enemy images thrive. In the absence of communication and exchange, adversarial narratives about the root causes of conflict are allowed to flourish.
Our response
We connect divided groups who would not normally meet – providing a safe space for them to air their views and communicate with each other. This could be young people, community leaders or politicians. It could be people in power, or without it. Such meetings help them to understand each other’s grievances, so they can deal with the past and move forwards. When well crafted, over time dialogue builds trust and relationships, breaks down barriers and helps dispel negative perceptions of the other side.
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The District Platform for Dialogue came in at a time of need…they told us that we are all one despite the Ebola invasion. The relationship between us and the surrounding communities is more cordial than before the Ebola.
Liberia
Our work in action
We bring people from different sides of a conflict together, to share their experiences, hear other perspectives and work together to develop solutions.
Deeper Learning
Explore our Learning Hub for insights, research and publications concerned with dialogue
Publications
Explainers
Research reports