Publication

The West has long proposed an "outsider/impartial" mediation model, arguing that distance and neutrality towards the conflict parties create acceptance and trust. The West is wrong. Most mediators in the world work along the lines of an "insider/partial" model. These mediators live in the conflict region, are affected by the conflict and they develop personal ties with the conflict parties. This study examines their often-unrecognized contribution to peace. It aims to find out how they mediate, and what makes them effective. Recognizing their key role in peace processes is essential to supporting them and increasing the effectiveness both of formal and informal mediation efforts.