Phase 1
Shift towards negotiations
Phase description
A negotiated settlement between the conflict parties becomes more likely, as the dynamics shift from a purely military confrontation towards efforts to find a negotiated solution to the conflict. A first informal exchange between the conflict parties takes place. This may be facilitated by a third party, for instance, a regional organization, foreign government or non-governmental organization. These third parties may also offer to mediate between the parties or conduct trust-building measures that involve the conflict-affected population. National civil society may also campaign for an end to violence.
Explore the following 1 use case(s) of digital technology:
Use Case 1
Digital campaign to build empathy between conflict parties
A Facebook campaign that encourages citizens to share positive experiences of engaging with other conflict stakeholders, to build momentum for the peace process and encourage the transformation of community relations. The campaign would begin with a selection of videos showing people in conversation with others, asking questions and demonstrating empathy with people who have different, and opposing views and experiences. The campaign would then launch an open call for submissions by citizens to share their videos as part of a nation-wide competition. This could be accompanied by targeted outreach activities. Specific communities could be coached and encouraged to experiment with videos, for instance on less sensitive issues than those directly confronting the core issues of the conflict. Videos would then be shared regularly among the participants of the campaign, demonstrating the value of human stories across the divide.
Important context factors
This campaign would work in contexts where there is a lack of shared narratives on the development of the conflict and the experiences of the other side(s). The campaign could be constrained if there is no or only limited willingness to speak out online. An opressive information environment, with limited freedom of expression would further reduce the impact of the campaign.
Risks and possible unintended consequences
- The campaign may be co-opted and used for political purposes
- There may be security risks for individuals featuring in the videos
- The campaign may have limited reach, depending on the platform used
Strategic purpose of digital inclusion
Functions of digital Technology
Outputs of digital Technology
Technologies used
Facebook, videos, animation
Proceed to another phase
Phase 1