SOMALI NATIONAL UNIVERSITY

Conflict Resolution

Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change
the world.
(Mandela)
 Introduction
• Conflict is a natural part of human interaction, arising
from differences in perspectives, needs, and
interests. Whether it occurs in personal
relationships, workplaces, or within communities,
conflict can be disruptive and damaging if left
unresolved.

• Conflict resolution is the process of addressing and

resolving these conflicts in a constructive and
mutually beneficial manner. It aims to find solutions
that satisfy the interests of all parties involved,
fostering understanding, cooperation, and harmony.
 Cont

• Conflict resolution involves more than simply "winning"

or "losing" a dispute. It emphasizes effective
communication, active listening, empathy, and
negotiation skills to facilitate a productive dialogue
between conflicting parties.

• Conflict resolution seeks to find creative and sustainable

solutions that address the underlying issues and
prevent future conflicts by focusing on common ground,
generating options, and encouraging compromise.
 Cont
• Effective conflict resolution can lead to numerous
benefits, both on an individual and societal level.
It can enhance relationships, promote teamwork,
and increase productivity in workplaces.
• Personal relationships can foster trust, closeness, and
personal growth.

• At a broader level, conflict resolution contributes to

social cohesion, peacebuilding, and the
development of resilient and inclusive
communities.
 Definition of Conflict
• Conflict (noun): conflicts (plural noun) is a serious
disagreement or argument, typically a protracted one:
"the eternal conflict between the sexes.
• Conflict comes From the Latin word for ‘to clash or
engage in a fight,’ a confrontation between one or more
parties. Conflicts are primarily an expression of
opposing interests.
• Conflicts are a part of everyday life – they form in
our close relations, at a societal level, and on an
international level. All too often, we see conflicts
leading to aggression, hostility, and war.
 Cont

• But conflicts can also be a stage leading to change

and wisdom if we learn to handle them
constructively.

• Conflict is a state of disagreement; disharmony

intra and interstate conflicts have become common
in the modern world.
• These conflicts do not limit themselves within
the locus of their origin; rather, they spread
across other sovereign states, thereby establishing
a threat to international peace and security.
 Definition of Conflict Resolution
• Conflict resolution is the process of addressing disputes
and finding mutually acceptable solutions. It
involves managing and mitigating the negative
consequences of conflicts while promoting positive
outcomes.
• The significance of conflict resolution becomes
seeming in various contexts, from interpersonal
relationships to international diplomacy
• Understanding the nature of conflict is the first step
toward effective resolution. Conflicts can be classified
into different types, including interpersonal conflicts,
organizational conflicts, and societal conflicts.
 Cont
• Interpersonal conflicts often arise from personal
differences, miscommunications, or
incompatible goals.
• Organizational conflicts can stem from power
struggles, resource allocation issues, or
differences in corporate culture.
• Societal conflicts, on the other hand, involve
broader issues like political, economic, or
cultural differences.
• One key aspect of conflict resolution is recognizing
that not all conflicts are inherently negative.
Constructive conflicts can stimulate
creativity, innovation, and positive change.
 Cont
• However, when conflicts worsen or become destructive,
they can lead to strained relationships, reduced
productivity, and long-lasting negative
consequences. In addition to understanding the nature
of conflicts, effective conflict resolution requires
developing essential skills.
• Communication is supreme in this regard. Active
listening, empathy and the ability to express
oneself create an open and respectful dialogue.
• Emotional intelligence is also crucial, as it enables
individuals to manage their own emotions and
understand the emotions of others during conflict
situations.
 Cont
• Problem-solving skills play a central role in conflict resolution.
Analyzing the root causes of conflicts, identifying common
interests, and generating creative solutions are essential
components of effective conflict resolution.
• The ability to negotiate and reach compromises is also a vital
skill, especially when dealing with conflicts involving multiple
parties with diverse interests.
• Cultural capability is vital for effective conflict resolution,
preventing misunderstandings by understanding cultural
differences and power dynamics.
• Organizational conflict resolution often involves formal
mechanisms like mediation or arbitration.
• In international relations, diplomacy and mediation are crucial for
preventing conflicts between nations and promoting reconciliation.
 THE PRINCIPLES OF CONFLICT
RESOLUTION
• Four basic principles underlie most approaches to conflict
resolution:
• (1) conflict resolution is a cooperative endeavor,
• (2) the solutions sought are integrative ones,
• (3) the foundation is an understanding of all party's
interests, and
• (4) both the process and its outcome are nonviolent.
 Cooperation
• A key feature of conflict resolution is the focus on
cooperation rather than competition. The
parties see the problem facing them as one on which
they can collaborate to find a solution that suits
them both.

• In our scenario, it is apparent that to make their

living arrangements work, the students will need to
cooperate. If, in his anger, ALI uses hostile
strategies, he may well suggest hostility from
the others.
 Integrative Solutions
• Follett (1940) first referred to the search for integrative
solutions, that is, solutions that meet the interests and
needs of all parties, by offering a personal story. She and
another woman disagreed about whether to open or close a
window.
• The compromise solution, that is, having it half open, would
satisfy neither of them. Eventually, they discovered that
one wanted the window open to increase the fresh air.
In contrast, the other wanted it closed to prevent a
draught, which led to the cooperative, integrative, or “win-
win” solution of opening a window in an adjoining room.
 An Interest-based Approach
• An interest-based approach to conflict resolution
focuses on understanding the deeper needs
and concerns behind a conflict, rather than just
pushing opposing solutions.
• It seeks creative solutions that go beyond initial
positions and aim for mutual benefit, rather than
compromise.
 Nonviolence
• Nonviolence is a key principle in resolving conflicts,
prioritizing peace over aggression. Using violence,
such as weapons, is not considered true conflict
resolution.
• Fields like psychology, criminology, and law provide
insights into preventing violence.
• Johan Galtung suggests violence often arises from
societal structures promoting dominance and oppression.
• Addressing inequalities like gender, class, and race is
crucial to fight violence effectively. Conflict resolution
should prioritize long-term solutions that respect
human rights.
Importance of Conflict
Resolution
Importance of Conflict Resolution

Conflict resolution skills are crucial in various aspects of life,

including personal relationships, professional
environments, and community settings. Here are some
key reasons why conflict resolution skills are essential:
Improved Relationships: Conflict resolution skills
enhance communication, empathy, and
understanding between individuals. People can build
and maintain healthier, more positive relationships by
managing conflicts effectively. It enables them to
address differences constructively and find mutually
satisfactory solutions, fostering trust, respect, and
collaboration.
 Cont
Enhanced Workplace Productivity: Conflict in the workplace
lowers productivity, morale, and increases turnover. Conflict
resolution skills aid in addressing disputes efficiently,
promoting open communication, problem-solving, and
teamwork for a more harmonious environment.

Effective Problem-Solving: Conflict resolution skills involve the

ability to identify underlying issues, analyze different
perspectives, and generate creative solutions. By
developing these skills, individuals can approach problems in a
constructive and solution-oriented manner. Conflict
resolution enables people to address the root causes of
conflicts rather than focusing only on surface-level
disagreements.
 Cont

Reduced Stress and Improved Well-being: Unresolved

conflicts can lead to stress, anxiety, and negative emotions.
Individuals can manage their feelings and conflict responses
by learning conflict resolution skills to reduce stress levels.
Resolving disputes constructively also promotes overall well-
being and a more positive and fulfilling life.

Positive Organizational Culture: Conflict resolution shapes

organizational culture. Proactive, constructive resolution
fosters value for diverse perspectives, enhancing
collaboration and innovation. It cultivates mutual
respect, open communication, and ongoing
 Cont
Peaceful Coexistence: Conflict resolution skills are
vital for maintaining harmony within communities
and globally. Through dialogue, empathy, and
understanding, they prevent conflicts from escalating
into violence, promoting social stability and harmony.

Personal Growth and Development: Conflict

resolution skills foster personal growth through self-
reflection, emotional intelligence, and enhanced
communication, offering valuable life skills beyond
conflict situations.
THANK YOU