Conflict Resolution & Peacebuilding

Conflict signals the need for change. When dealt with constructively, conflict offers powerful opportunities for peaceful change at all levels of society, from the personal to community to national and global change.

Effective intervention processes help conflict parties develop improved relations and reach mutually beneficial and lasting solutions that meet the basic needs, interests and aspirations of all sides. Successful conflict intervention can produce short-term positive results and lay the foundation for longer-term peacebuilding.

ACT offers two approaches to conflict resolution and peacebuilding: a problem-solving approach and an appreciate inquiry approach. <strong>Problem solving</strong> focuses on what is wrong and how to fix it to create a better future. <strong>Appreciative inquiry</strong> starts by looking at what is working well and expands to what possibilities there are for doing something greater in the future. Selecting the approach and where to begin is based on an analysis of the situation and needs of the client. In our experience, a combination of approaches often works best.

ACT provides the following conflict intervention and peacebuilding services:

• Advising clients on possible approaches to addressing their conflict
• Designing conflict resolution systems for non-governmental organizations, local governments, schools, and businesses
• Mediating interpersonal, organizational, community and intergroup conflicts
• Facilitating dialogues, restorative circles and problem-solving processes in schools, organizations, and communities