Mediating self-determination conflicts

Conflicts where one or more parties have a self-determination claim - expressly or implicitly, and irrespective of forms - present distinct challenges for peacemaking. Driven by perceptions of historical oppression, exclusion, exploitation, and injustice, which those affected feel powerless to change, groups often conclude that the only solution is some form of autonomy within - or complete secession from - the state. These claims in turn challenge majority communities’ sense of the territorial integrity, sovereignty and unity of the state.

This report analyses common sticking points and barriers to constructive engagement in self-determination conflicts and suggests ways that peace and mediation practitioners can support and encourage opposing parties to move away from zero-sum dynamics, overcome blockages to constructive dialogue and identify governance arrangements for self-determination that meet the needs and interests of all within a state’s jurisdiction.

Drawing on learning from Conciliation Resources’ and SPF’s long-term engagement in a range of situations where self-determination is an issue and from other practical experience of peacebuilding and mediation, it explores how official and unofficial mediation and peace practice at different levels can help ‘fill the gap’ in self-determination conflicts where a formal high-level process is absent, suspended or making little progress. The report also encourages peace practitioners to reflect on their own (potential) roles and to engage more strategically and coherently in an evolving peace and mediation landscape to help societies resolve conflicts over self-determination. 

The report builds on practical resources, particularly the Handbook on prevention and resolution of self-determination conflicts which provides a menu of good practices that states, communities and mediators may find instructive in their efforts to prevent and resolve conflicts involving issues of self-determination. The aim is not to replicate but to flesh out how the guidelines can be implemented in practice. 

This report was produced as part of a three-year learning partnership between the Sasakawa Peace Foundation and Conciliation Resources on ‘Mediating self-determination conflicts’. Conciliation Resources is grateful to the Sasakawa Peace Foundation who also provide financial support for the partnership.