Research and Development

Development and innovation in building bridges across divided communities

Divides between groups or across sectors in society may have origins in differences of identity (e.g. ethnicity, culture), of age and background, or of power and wealth. Past violent conflict or war can leave fractures in communities. Such divides may be characterised by a lack of interaction, communication and understanding between different groups. In some cases, the existence of power differentials can be used to discriminate against less influential groups, resulting in inequality and disadvantage, and may even become an accepted norm in a society - e.g the caste system in Nepal and past discrimination against Catholics in Northern Ireland. Divides may become institutionalised and ingrained in the fabric of society, giving rise to segregation - e.g. the educational system in parts of present day Croatia.

Northern Ireland 'Troubles' - 40 years on  

Division, lack of interaction and alienation between groups does not necessarily create problems immediately but has the potential to do so in the future, particularly in times of social stress and uncertainty. Where there is a past history of abuse or violence between groups, separation does not allow for any healing or reconciliation and stores up problems for the future. There is a danger that prejudice, hatred and resentment will be transmitted down the generations, adding to the complexity of the problem as the feelings and emotions are no longer grounded in the relevant experiences. Groups in a state of trauma and high tension are also susceptible to manipulation by influential leaders. 

The Bosnian War - 'Don't forget Srebrenica'

Managing conflict constructively in communities 

The flow of social conflict often goes in destructive directions and leads to alienation, the breakdown of relationships and even violence. What is needed is not the removal of the conflict, but a change in how it is managed towards positive engagement, respect for others, collaboration and creative problem-solving. Working with conflict requires skills in critical inquiry, listening and communication, as well as a willingness to suspend judgement, accept difference and deal with strong feelings and emotions. Resilient communites have the capacity to deal with the stresses and downturns of life and are able to adapt and change as needed. Such capacity comes from a diverse rangs of individuals and groups who have the ability to provide leadership, mediate, enable dialogue and support creative problem-solving.

Building on existing good practice and working collaboratively across disciplines, iFacilitate is researching the development of processes that enable the development of robust conflict management capacities in communities. Present areas of interest include:

Science: using science and the scientific method as a means of engaging participants in learning and in working together that draws on the human attributes of a sense of wonder, curiosity and creativity, requiring rigour and discipline in the inquiry process.  

Creative arts: Theatre, art, music and sport speak to people across barriers of language, nationality and background and create space to explore and ‘play,’ whilst providing an element of ritual and protection. 

Theatre in the criminal justice system