Problem-Solving Workshops in Cyprus and Kenya. Challenges and Opportunities

Academic Paper from the year 2023 in the subject Politics - Topic: Peace and Conflict, Security, , course: Peace and Conflict Studies, language: English, abstract: This paper explores conflict resolution strategies, focusing on problem-solving workshops as an effective approach. Chapter 1 delves into various diplomacy types, underscoring the significance of understanding individual and societal dynamics. Success factors encompass a willing participant group, sustained funding commitment, trust, personal relationships, and credible third-party facilitators.

Chapter 2 details the implementation of private problem-solving workshops within academic settings, targeting community opinion leaders. It emphasizes mutual understanding, problem-solving, and policy transferability, emphasizing participant selection, facilitation, and post-workshop follow-up for conflict resolution. Chapter 3 elaborates on the application of problem-solving workshops in the context of the Cyprus conflict, fostering understanding and collaboration. Challenges include resource constraints, resistance from certain groups, and the potential breach of confidentiality.

Chapter 4 scrutinizes Kenya's post-election violence, examining the effectiveness of the Truth Justice and Reconciliation Commission. It suggests that problem-solving workshops and third-party mediation can address root causes and promote lasting peace. Individuals and organizations like Tecla Lorupe and Prophet Dr. Owuor have made positive contributions to peace efforts in Kenya, yet further endeavors are essential to maximize the potential of peace workshops.