Community reconciliation and conflict resolution : training in negotiation and joint problem-solving for communities in Angola -- June 1996 to February 1998 : final report

In cooperation with the Centre for Common Ground (CCG), the Angolan arm of the U.S.-based Search for Common Ground, CMG conducted two 5-day negotiation and problem-solving workshops in the cities of Luanda and Sumbe. The alliance established with CCG was integral to the successful implementation of the training program, as CCG not only provided a network of interested participants and a competent training staff, but also logistical, linguistic, and personnel support in the field. The structure of the two negotiation workshops was highly interactive, engaging the participants in exercises that simulated a discussion of actual problems that they themselves face in everyday life. The workshop relied on elicitive methods, depending on the participants to provide personal examples from which to develop scenarios. Through such exercises, the participants were taught how to use various negotiation and problem-solving tools that reinforce the diagnosis and management of conflicts from an interest-based perspective. A small but significant portion of Angolan society is now equipped with conflict management skills. Workshop participants are members of local government and community organizations and are well placed to multiply the impact of the conflict resolution training in which they have participated. To guarantee the effectiveness of their efforts, CMG and CCG plan to design a larger conflict resolution program to be implemented by those participants who have demonstrated an interest in transferring skills to their constituents. In this way, Angolans will build the problem-solving capacity of their communities, empowering the population from within the nation"s borders. (Author abstract, modified)