In the Context of the ZPSP
SST was taken hostage by extreme political polarisation in Zimbabwe in the mid-2000s and discredited essentially as being one more element of conflict. By design and by necessity, ZPSP emerged having a robust component of mediation methodologies, tools and concepts. Such a peacebuilding component allows ZPSP to factor-in SST elements of both conflict prevention and conflict resolution, and to use a conflict transformation lens to SST.
Definition - Consensus Building
Consensus refers to convergence and/or agreement in political decision-making between different parties by way of mediation, consultation or structured dialogue. In conflict or transitional contexts, consensus-based approaches are geared to reassure opposing stakeholders that decisions about crucial issues will take into account their different interests and expectations. Informed and participatory consent is a foundational element of peacebuilding and conflict management processes. For SSR, mediation tools and mechanisms can be essential elements to nurture the process and help manage change that derives from political developments, from shifts in the security institutions and in society’s overall balance of power.
Selected Resources
- UN Mediation and the Politics of Transition after Constitutional Crises, Institute of Peace, 2012
- Power sharing, transitional governments and the role of mediation, Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue, 2008
- A Systemic Approach to Conflict Transformation Exploring Strengths and Limitations, Berghof Handbook Dialogue Series, Berghof Foundation, 2008