In this session, we will lay a theoretical and skills-based framework to support the entire series of intensive conflict-resolutions skills trainings. Our approach melds tailored, hands-on exercises with the latest findings from the myriad fields of social science which lie tangent to conflict-resolution. After preliminary introductions, during the first hour, we will critically examine common notions of what it means to listen. What does it mean to listen to be open to conflicting parties’ verbal and nonverbal signals, in order to unearth their underlying concerns, needs, interests, and wants? How can a posture of genuine curiosity enable third-party neutrals, as well as parties to conflict?

            Next, we’ll explore modes of question formation during the information-gathering stage of conflict-resolution. In this segment, our program highlights types of questions with varying purposes: clarifying, suggesting, stimulating, encouraging, focusing, exploring, closing, etc. Here, again, a discussion about linguistic and communication theories will be melded with practical exercises on question framing, timing, and ordering. After deconstructing modes of inquiry, we will turn to methods of unpacking parties’ answers. As mediators, we listen for parties’ underlying interests, values, and visions; as well as for disguised proposals. We will wrap up the first half of the session with a discussion of the situational and environmental factors that influence conflict-resolution.

            Finally, in the afternoon, we will carry out an interactive negotiation simulation, which has been tailored for UN participants by members of our Clinic. The roleplay will allow participants to synthesize and deploy many of the skills discussed throughout the day. A multi-stage, comprehensive debriefing session will follow the roleplay, with small-group and large-group discussions.