This Guide for “Youth As Mediators” was commissioned by Search for Common Ground (Search) in the framework of the United Nations Peacebuilding Fund (UNPBF) 21-month funded project “Strengthening Young Women’s Participation in Local and National Peace Processes in South Sudan.”
Being prepared for mediation is extremely important at all three levels of the “We Are Here” framework. If a mediator is not adequately prepared, there is a risk that the violent conflict could escalate or continue with no agreement being reached. In particular, it is important to understand the different actors in a given conflict, the issues which are at stake (both obvious and hidden) and key dynamics. This will help a mediator to be prepared for issues that come up during a dialogue process. Key skills important for mediation covered in this guide include: problem-solving, impartiality, active listening, patience, teamwork and effective communication.
