Peace mediation meets diplomacy: mediation course for attachés of the Federal Foreign Office

On January 11th and 12th, ZIF offered extensive insights into peace mediation in an interactive program. The two-day module was tailor-made designed for the 78th attaché course, prospective diplomats of the Federal Foreign Office (AA).

Together with trainers from the Institute for Conflict Management (IKM) of the European University Viadrina Frankfurt/Oder, Berghof Foundation, CSSP - Berlin Center for Integrative Mediation and inmedio, the participants were offered practical applications as well as theoretical training elements in three parallel groups. The mediation team from Unit S03 on the AA's Stabilization, Crisis Prevention and Peacebuilding Principles also provided links between peace mediation processes and the crew's future professional life. In addition, there were practical insights, including an input on a German mediation engagement by an experienced diplomat.

The primary aim of the teaching module was to establish a common foundation of knowledge on peace mediation. The crew found very the role play especially enriching, since they had the opportunity to step into the shoes of mediators and conflict parties.

We would like to thank all participants, speakers and trainers for the successful module and the dynamic exchange!