Dialogue and Peace Processes

Conflicts exist in all countries and at every level of society. Conflict in itself is not necessarily negative, but rather an expression of differences of interest. However, when a conflict is not handled by peaceful means, it can escalate and people can resort to violence.

Dialogue and mediation are important tools to address conflicts in a constructive manner and avoid violence, end ongoing violence, and prevent the recurrence of violence.

A dialogue process is an open-ended discussion between the parties to a conflict that entails listening, understanding, and the sharing of perspectives.

A mediation process is more formalized. A mediator, commonly representing a neutral outside party, provides a framework for negotiations between the parties to the conflict, aimed at reaching a concrete settlement such as a peace agreement.

What does the FBA do?

  • Training and advice
    FBA offers training and advice on dialogue and peace mediation. For example, FBA has held a yearly course for the UN Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs during more than a decade. Between 2015 and 2023, FBA also coordinated the Swedish Women’s Mediation Network, created on behalf of the Swedish Ministry for Foreign Affairs with the aim of increasing the number of women participating in peace processes.

  • Research
    FBA conducts and supports international research on dialogue and peace mediation.

  • Secondments
    FBA seconds personnel working within the field of dialogue and peace mediation to international peace operations that Sweden contributes to, led by the EU, UN and OSCE. Click here to see a map of where our personnel is currently deployed.

  • Our partner countries
    Within the framework of Sweden’s international development aid, FBA carries out projects concerning dialogue and peace mediation in conflict-affected countries. Click here to read more about the countries where we work.
  • Support to civil society
    FBA grants yearly funds to Swedish civil society organizations working to promote dialogue and debate and to spread knowledge about peace and security related issues, for example issues concerning dialogue and peace mediation.

 

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On international deployment

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An Insider’s View: Lessons from the Afghan Peace Process, 2001-2021

This insider’s view gives a first-hand account of the Afghan peace process between the government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan and the Taliban between 2001 and 2021.

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Author:
Baryalai Helali
Year:
2024

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Our partner countries

FBA is part of Sweden’s development aid within the area of peace and security

Read more about the countries where we work

Upcoming courses

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