The Training for Peace (TFP) Programme at ACCORD conducted a Conflict Management for Peacekeepers and Peacebuilders Course for the African Union – United Nations Hybrid Operations in Darfur (UNAMID) from 3-5 June 2009 in Kampala, Uganda. The course was attended by twenty-four (24) participants predominantly from the Civil Affairs Section of UNAMID.
The course aimed to assist participants in becoming more efficient conflict mitigators through a deeper understanding of the dynamics of conflict; and a better appreciation of how, in practical terms, the principles and techniques of negotiation and mediation can be applied to ameliorate conflict situations, particularly at the lower community levels.
The first day focused on understanding conflict, the second day on negotiations and communication styles and skills and the third on mediation. Participants were exposed to several syndicate exercises and role plays which facilitated additional knowledge, skills and understanding of the tools and principles that can be utilised to manage and resolve conflicts.
The course ended with a briefing by a representative of the Civil Affairs Coordination Office at the United Nations (UN) Best Practices Section (BPS) at UN Headquarters to field staff on the Civil Affairs Community of Practice as well as on the various Headquarter initiatives in support of the work of Civil Affairs in the field including: the development of new guidelines and a training handbook for Civil Affairs.
For more information on the course, please contact Zinurine Alghali at zinurine@accord.org.za.
