Our Approach

Integrative mediation,

as developed by CSSP, addresses the complexities of conflicts in post-conflict and transitioning regions comprehensively and individually by utilizing a variety of conflict resolution tools, all with a mediative approach.

Intra-state and intergroup conflicts are multidimensional; therefore, CSSP pays attention to the bigger picture, considering the interconnectedness of local problems and regional and national trends while, at the same time, recognizing particular issues and supporting actors involved in specific conflicts.

Multiple tracks

CSSP engages with multiple levels of society and governance. Horizontally, we build coalitions for peace with many different actors, including political bodies, civil society, business communities, religious representatives, media, etc. Vertically, we connect local and intermediate leaders as well as local peacebuilding and conflict resolution initiatives with state institutions at a central level, and also with actors of the international community who support peacebuilding and conflict transformation processes.

Multiple stakeholders

Conflict transformation processes must include all societal groups that are affected by this very transformation; only then are negotiated agreements likely to be mutually accepted and implemented in existing structures. Thus, we work with stakeholders who have decision-making power while, at the same time, we aim to counterbalance power asymmetries by integrating less influential groups into the transformation processes.

Multiple Issues

In post-conflict and transitioning regions, issues are manifold and crosscutting. We facilitate inter-community mediation and negotiation between conflicting parties, and are involved with the reintegration of ex-combatants, anti-discrimination, local self-governance, peace education, property rights, proportional representation, return of IDPs, gender equality, conflict resolution infrastructure and insider mediators, participatory decision-making, transitional justice mechanisms, security, and economic development.

Multiple methods

Depending on a conflict’s history, context, and actors, CSSP uses various tools to design a tailor-made approach for creating safe spaces for peacebuilding efforts. Integrative mediation processes are usually long-term and aim at continuously influencing conflict dynamics towards mutually developed, jointly approved, and sustainable solutions. Simultaneously, CSSP supports the incremental institutionalization of conflict transformation structures, processes, and skills within communities for the future management of conflicts.