Programme 8

Conflict Resolution – Messines

Programme aim
To capture the potential for mutual understanding, respect for differences and reconciliation through remembering. To develop and deliver a bespoke programme on conflict resolution and address differences between communities in the North East Cluster area.

To incorporate a remembrance theme and take participants to the International School for Peace Studies located in the village of Messines, Belgium, on the site of the Battle of Messine Ridge where in 1917 soldiers from the Nationalist 16th Irish Division and Unionist 36th Ulster Division, fought and died together on the same battlefield. During their visit participants will complete a conflict resolution programme accredited to OCN Level1 delivered by the International School for Peace Studies.

Target beneficiaries
There will be a focus on targeting groups or individuals within groups who have a role to play within their communities in tackling sectarianism but who need additional support to understand the processes. Participants will be cross community throughout the six Council areas and aims to ensure that they spread learning on conflict resolution throughout their communities after the programme is complete but also build on the cross community relationships established. Good Relations Officers are also being directly targeted to sustain the momentum and the impact beyond the lifetime of the funding period.

Outcomes
As a result of the programme 24 community groups (144 participants in total) will be identified and engaged from throughout the North East Cluster in a conflict resolution programme. The programme will include 2 pre visit sessions for participants that will explore the historical context of World War 1. A three/five day visit to Messines in Belgium focusing on a remembrance via guided tours, interpretation, group discussion and facilitation plus the completion of an OCN Level 1 accreditation.

There will be improved mutual understanding and respect of difference amongst all participants and the opportunity to build positive relations. Lessons learnt will be captured in order to inform future activities of a similar nature.

Timescales
24th March – 31st October 2010

Contacts
This programme is being delivered by The International School for Peace Studies.

For further information contact:
Glenn Barr OBE
The International School for Peace Studies
The Ebrington Centre
Glendermott Road
Waterside
Derry/Londonderry
Northern Ireland
BT47 6BG
Tel: 028 7131 1005
Email: glen@schoolforpeace.com