Peacebuilding in Ukraine: training on conflict management and inclusion was implemented in Zaporizhzhia

On June 29 – July 3 the first module of training course on conflict management and inclusion in local communities was implemented in Zaporizhzhia. The trainers – Olena Nabokova and Inna Boiko. Peacebuilding is a complex process that involves working with sensible issues, as well as painstaking work to consolidate society.

The trainers noted that the group consisted of participants of different ages, including several psychologists, but most of them were not familiar with the topic of conflict. During the first module, the group showed real interest in the training subject and the vast majority expressed a desire to hold similar events in their own communities afterwards.

"The high level of motivation was kept up by individual involvement and practical exercises. The training was based on the use of a wide range of teaching methods: information messages, brainstorming, work in small groups, discussions and debates, interactive exercises, presentations, etc. In total, 21 exercises of various topics and directions were given during the training. Such a wide range of methods allowed to ensure an active practical part of the course. The training and the process of developing the participants' new skills were based on their already existing experience, that was constantly discussed, analysed and that was solidified with the help of various exercises", the trainers emphasized.

During the training, the following key issues were addressed: "Introduction to Conflict Studies", "Communication as a Process and Conflict as Means of Communication", "Impact", "Conflict Awareness and Management: Challenges, Situations", "Violence as a Conflict Variety", "Karpman Drama Triangle" and others. The participants were given techniques for conflicts analysis and tools for working with them. This knowledge will help them to further develop their communicational skills. Except for the workbook, upon request, the trainers' team provided participants with electronic versions of materials on conflict management, which could be useful to them in preparing their next steps.

All participants provided feedback that they had not previously thought about the importance of communication in personal and professional life, and that much depends on its quality and effectiveness, including the emergence or eruption of conflicts.

The training-course was implemented within the "Crisis prevention and Peace building in Ukraine – Time to Act!" project, supported with German Federal Foreign Office’s funds by IFA (Institut für Auslandsbeziehungen), Funding programme zivik.