Module 1: Screening of the Conflict

Abstract

The basis and first step of an efficient conflict reconciliation and management is a proper screening study. Screening aims at yielding the best picture achievable through collecting existing information on key aspects without going deeply into own investigations. The outcome of the screening phase provides information on how to proceed with, where to focus on, and how much effort to spend on which aspect. This chapter provides checklists of different questions concerning the history, the current scale, ecology, damage, legal, social and economic aspects of the issue, as well as possible ways out of the conflict. The screening analysis indicates whether further steps should be taken along a minimum, a standard or an advanced approach. Already this first phase of a conflict management should be carried out by a knowledgeable person (conflict manager), who is accepted by all stakeholders who might have a crucial impact on conflict reconciliation.