New research for more effective peace mediation

How can peace mediation as a tool be used more effectively to prevent, manage, and resolve conflicts? A new research brief series presents new perspectives and recommendations on this topic, offering a deeper understanding of the complexity of peace mediation.

– While peace mediation is a potentially effective tool for resolving conflicts, both within and between states, its success varies globally. At a time when the number of violent conflicts is increasing worldwide, peace mediation is becoming increasingly relevant. However, today's global conflict landscape requires methods that are as effective as possible, says Maja Jakobsson, Programme Manager for Dialogue and Peace Mediation at FBA.

As part of FBA's efforts to contribute to evidence-based and effective peacebuilding, a research brief series has been produced in collaboration with the civil society organisation African Centre for the Constructive Resolution of Disputes (ACCORD). 

The series consists of four research briefs that highlight different aspects of mediation. It begins by defining peace mediation and discussing different interpretations of the concept. The series then explores the role of civil society. Among other things, it presents an analysis of civil society’s role in peace mediation between states, with examples from the Minsk process in Ukraine during 2014-2021. Furthermore, it explores how civil society can contribute to more inclusive peace negotiations. Finally, it analyses how multi-track mediation efforts can be coordinated and complement each other to achieve sustainable peace agreements.

– We hope that these research briefs will contribute to a more in-depth discussion on how the mediation tool can be strengthened to be better applied in a world where peaceful conflict resolution is needed more than ever. All the themes in the series represent key issues that, if approached in the right way, can contribute to greater success in peace processes, says Johanna Malm, Head of Research at FBA. 

Read the reports

What is Peace Mediation?

How to make civil society inclusion in inter-state peace mediation meaningful: Lessons from the Minsk Negotiation Process 2014-2021

Civil society protests and inclusive peace talks

Coherence, coordination and complementarity? Multi-track mediation and quality peace agreements

 

 

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Author:
Leslie Groves-Williams, Gabriela Elroy, Kristin Valasek
Year:
2025

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