Proper Conflict Analysis is Key to Conflict Resolution
Conflict analysis is so important that if you get it wrong;
the conflict cannot be resolved and may escalate. In order to resolve any
conflict, you must get its analysis right – that is the basis then resolution
or transformation may be directed towards creating more constructive situations
where there is some compromise and common view on the agreeable way forward by
the parties to conflict. We conduct conflict analyses to deepen our
understanding of what is going on, who is involved and what the confrontation
is all about. Conflict analyses are intended to help us decide how to position
ourselves in a complex landscape, and to design appropriate actions aimed at
unlocking stalemates, bringing actors into negotiations and dialogue, finding
the middle grounds, figuring out the best way (at least acceptable way) forward
in terms of agreements and how such can be implemented and monitored.
But in
such processes, many actors have reported failure, mainly due to certain important
mistakes that should be avoided. In order
to make the most of it, Koenraad Van
Brabant, a seasoned practitioner, has suggested thirteen
frequently observed weaknesses that undermine the potential of conflict analysts
that should be avoided for the success of conflict analysis. These are: (1) wrong
attitude, (2) connection between our programming and the analysis, (3) mandate and
supply-driven conflict analysis, (4) confusing context-conflict-situational analysis, (5)
making too much of ‘phases’ of conflict, (6) seeing only ‘open conflict and, (7) making too much
of ‘root causes'. Others are: (8) uncertainty about the chosen time frame,
(9) pushing for
one conflict analysis, (10) insufficient attention to the economic interests in
violence and conflict, (11) failing to acknowledge somewhat separate yet also interlocking
conflict dynamics, (12) neglecting the capacities and initiatives for peace
and finally, (13) failing to inquire into what has been tried before and
lastly analysis paralysis.
For conflict
analysis experts and those interested in trying this science out especially in practice,
take keen attention and make deliberate efforts to overcome these 13 weaknesses
and you will see some progress. Never give up so soon or too fast since conflicts are often complex and analysis may take you to many directions – even to little known territories
but stay the cause and remain open to new challenges and possibilities. Remember,
we can resolve conflicts (at least some of them) if and when we get analysis
right but we may resolve none or even escalate some with poor and/or incomplete
analysis.
Proper Conflict Analysis is Key to Conflict Resolution
Reviewed by Ibrahim Magara
on
February 23, 2017
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