Conflicts of today are becoming increasingly complex, changing and correlating with identity and cultural issues. One of the crucial factors affecting negotiation and mediation is the awareness of cultural issues. Cross-cultural awareness refers to the ability to be regardful of people’s perceptions relating to experiences, beliefs, values, concepts and expectations within a given cultural context as well as of their impact. Comprehending each other’s cultures provides the necessary tools to address both current and potential conflicts.

The course will look into different ways of approaching intractable cross-cultural conflicts. While some assume that these conflicts are caused by the existence of cultural differences, others claim that the root causes stem from perceptions, difficulties in communicating and understanding each other, dictated by cultural frameworks. The course will focus on common ground for intercultural and interreligious dialogue, as well as on exploring various methods for resolving cross-cultural conflicts through dialogue and negotiations, or third-party facilitation and mediation.

This program is designed for senior and mid-level staff members working in international organizations headquarters and field operations (UN, AU, OSCE, EU, etc.), and those working in governments, non-governmental organizations, academic institutions, or preparing to serve in peace operations and in diplomatic service. The objective of the course is to enhance their specific knowledge and skills to manage the cultural dimension, as well as to enable them to develop a deeper understanding of ways to prevent, mitigate, and resolve cross-cultural conflicts. 

The training will consist of lectures and facilitated discussions by senior experts and practitioners in the field (UN senior mediation advisers, former head of UN mission, ambassadors and university professors), as well as simulation exercises, role play and case studies, which will comprise over 50% of the course. A virtual space will be provided for group discussions and best practices, and for experience sharing among the participants under the guidance of the senior mentors.