osloforum

Oslo forum 08 - The annual Mediators Retreat

24-27 June 2008, Oslo

Oslo forum 2008 aimed to examine the prospects for mediation in a challenging environment.

Some 90 participants debated who can be talked to and about what and whether imminent changes in world politics (especially US politics) herald significant changes; what support mediators need and what support is available. Specific discussions included experiences of local mediation and the significance of gender sensitivity as a mediation tool. Also, the challenges to dialogue in Iraq, and Dafur/ Chad featured prominently, along with a spotlight on former combatants’ views on demobilisation and disarmament. Situation reports from Somalia, Nepal, Cyprus, Afghanistan, Lebanon and Abkhazia were delivered by experienced mediators during informal breakfast sessions.