How do you think conflict resolution/conflict management can improve and evolve humanitarian aid and assistance?
There’s a temptation of humanitarian players to sweep ethnic and class differences under the rug. I think that we must realize and recognize the differences – the good and the bad – and avoid dealing with them confrontationally. We must not chastise local populations, but instead give them skills to be firm, friendly and respectful. Never limit yourself to “choosing sides.” There must always be more listening, more talking, more understanding with less “solutions.” Peace is not a piece of paper. Leaders often want handshakes and photo opportunities, but what is critically needed is training on dealing with each other and useful discussion. Peace is not easy – it’s not a one-shot solution – it’s dealing endlessly with differences. Instead of picking up a gun, I want them to learn to pick up the telephone. One great example is (South Africa’s) Nelson Mandela. He spent many of his years in prison. There he learned Afrikaans so he could deal with his “enemy.” This is a great illustration o
