Non-Violent Methods of Resolving Conflicts

Definition of Violence:

Violence means using or involving physical force intended to hurt, damage, or kill someone or something.

Definition of Non-Violence:

Non-violence means using peaceful means rather than force, especially to bring about political or social change.

Resolving Conflicts nonviolently is the best way to settle disagreements or conflicts.

Non-Violent Methods of Resolving Conflicts:

The following conflict management and resolution techniques can be used to solve, manage or resolve conflicts in societyThe term society is derived from the Latin word 'socius' meaning friendship or companionship. Society is a community, nation or group of people who share the same traditions, institutions, rules and... More: 

1. Compromise: This is an agreement or settlement of a dispute reached by each party making adjustments to their demands. When a conflict is resolved through compromise, the parties negotiate and modify or adjust their needs or demands. Each party then agrees with the adjustments made, so the conflict is settled.

2. Mediation: Here, conflicts are resolved using an unbiased third party, the mediator. The mediator helps the parties involved resolve the conflict by helping them reach a resolution or decision acceptable to each party.

3. Arbitration: This is a private dispute resolution process where parties agree to discuss and submit their dispute to an impartial third party (an arbitrator or judge) for a binding decision. The decision made by the arbitrator or judge is used to put an end to the conflict. Arbitration is used when the parties prefer not to go to court.

4. Litigation/ Court Rulings: Litigation is the process of taking legal action, which then leads to a court ruling. A court ruling refers to an official decision, order, or interpretation made by a judge or court on a question of law or a disputed matter. This ruling is final and used to resolve the conflict in question.

Court Rulings are similar to Arbitration, however, the main difference is that court rulings are carried out in the court of law, whereas Arbitration is not.

5. Enquiry: This is an official investigation carried out to make a decision. An Enquiry is usually carried out by a panel, which looks into the cause of the conflict and makes appropriate decisions to resolve it. They also make recommendations to prevent similar future conflicts.

6. Dialogue: This is a discussion between two or more people or groups, such discussions are directed towards the exploration of a particular subject or the resolution of a problem. In order for dialogue to be successful, participants must commit to speaking, listening, reflecting and questioning, so they come to a mutual understanding that leads to conflict resolution.