Participatory process as a tool to resolve conflict

Abstract

The very nature of participatory processes raises the issues (and sources of conflict) more effectively – and a key aspect of successful participatory process is to openly acknowledge and embrace the source of the disputes and then focus on finding acceptable tradeoffs that have to be made. Common sense,trust, respect, patience, really focussing on understanding the needs, concerns and limits of all participants all go a long way to facilitating positive outcomes. A process that is transparent in nature and which embraces a philosophy of being traceable,accountable and reproducible is also key.