MECHANISMS AND APPROACHES TO MEDIATION IN INTERNAL CONFLICTS

This panel explored innovative strategies for mediating internal conflicts in Africa, focusing on tailored solutions for sustainable peace. Discussions addressed the achievements and limitations of current institutional mechanisms and mediation processes. Key questions included: What are the institutional and political challenges in African mediation? How can the effectiveness of African actors in mediation be improved? What are some new African mediation practices?

Why Have Stabilization Efforts in the Sahel Failed?

Jean-Hervé Jezequel, Project Director at the International Crisis Group, opened the discussion by examining the persistent instability in the Sahel. Why have extensive stabilization efforts failed to contain violence? He attributed this to an over-reliance on military responses and insufficient political dialogue. Jezequel emphasized the need for locally-driven solutions, highlighting the roles of women, traditional, and religious leaders in revitalizing peacebuilding efforts.

What can Guinea’s transition teach us about mediation?

Kabiné Komara, Former Prime Minister of the Republic of Guinea, shared his experience managing Guinea’s post-coup transition. He underscored the importance of African-led mediation, the need for credible mediators familiar with local contexts, and the pivotal role of women in conflict resolution. Komara called for ECOWAS to revise its negotiation strategies to better address dynamic and complex regional conflicts.

How can we bridge the gap between mediation mandates and effective action?

Ajay Sethi, Senior Advisor at the Mediation Support Unit of the United Nations, discussed this question by focusing on the challenges of capacity-building at local, national, and regional levels. He stressed the importance of financial sustainability for peace processes and advocated for a tailored approach that respects the unique cultural and political contexts of each region.

What role do youth and women play in sustaining peace?

Lassina Zerbo, Former Prime Minister of Burkina Faso, highlighted their significant yet often overlooked contributions to peace and security efforts. He called for a blend of traditional and modern mediation methods, respecting cultural frameworks while integrating contemporary practices. Zerbo emphasizeed the need for consistent and inclusive mediation approaches to ensure lasting peace in Africa.

INNOVATION FOR BETTER COORDINATION OF LOCAL, NATIONAL, REGIONAL, AND INTERNATIONAL PROCESSES

This panel explored innovations to strengthen coordination among local, national, regional, and UN levels for more effective mediation. The goal is to develop integrated approaches for coordinated, non-competitive conflict management. Key questions included: How can AU, REC, and UN mediation approaches be better integrated? How can traditional norms be consolidated in the mediation process? What synergies can be found between AU leadership, REC primacy, civil society involvement, and the sovereignty of conflict-affected states?

Why is effective mediation crucial for the Sahel?

Paul-Simon Handy, Senior Advisor at the Institute for Security Studies, emphasized that Africa’s peace and security arrangements, with their unique multi-level structure, require enhanced mediation tools. He highlighted the African Union’s progress in professionalizing its mediation efforts, yet pointed out the gap between mandates and realities. Handy advocated for better coordination, involving civil society and the private sector, and increased investment in conflict prevention.

How does corruption impact conflict resolution?

Ahmedou Ould Abdallah, Former Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation of the Islamic Republic of Mauritania, stressed the role of good governance and a free press in combating corruption and fostering effective mediation. He pointed out that today’s complex conflicts, especially with the involvement of non-state actors, require robust governance and mediation strategies. Abdallah called for greater global attention to African issues and improved governance to achieve lasting peace.

What role do women play in mediation?

Loredana Teodorescu, Head of the Mediterranean Women Mediators Network, highlighted the importance of integrating women into the mediation process and building bridges across various levels of engagement. She advocated for inclusivity, global partnerships, and financial support to address structural problems. Teodorescu emphasized that amplifying diverse voices is essential for effective conflict resolution and lasting peace.

Why is continuous mediation necessary?

Norman Sempijja, Associate Professor, Mohammed VI Polytechnic University, discussed the underdeveloped nature of peacekeeping and the need for ongoing mediation. He highlighted the importance of legitimacy and the role of various actors in the peace process. Sempijja stressed that peacekeeping must be adaptive and continuous, with legitimate mediators to achieve lasting peace, as seen in the complexities of conflicts like those in Sudan and Libya.