Mediation
What is mediation?
What are the stages of a mediation?
- Ground rules are established.
Storytelling:
- Each party describes the situation from their viewpoint.
- Both parties are given equal time to discuss their views and issues.
- Mediator lists joint issues based on the issues framed by the offender and the victim.
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- Participants describe an issue and a related problem in further depth.
This helps:- Participants discover the interests under their positions, what matters most to them.
- Encourages parties to generate options jointly.
- Note commonalities whenever possible.
- Encourage parties to examine and be open about their feelings.
- Encourage constructive communication.
- Parties focus on their future rather than being stuck on the past.
- Most conflicts include both tangible issues and relationship issues. Problem solving
allows for natural progression in dealing with these issues.
- Offender and victim form an agreement based on the solutions they have come up with
in regards to how they will deal with their problems. Agreement is detailed and specific
about who does what, when and where.
Adapted from Ron Kraybill, A Mediation Process: An Overview, MCC Conflict Transformation and Restorative Justice Manual, Foundations and Skills for Mediation and Facilitation, 2008.
- Participants describe an issue and a related problem in further depth.
What is the Peacemaking Circle Process?
Peacemaking circles provide a process for bringing people together as equals to talk
about very difficult issues and painful experiences in an atmosphere of respect and
concern for everyone. Peacemaking circles create a space in which all people, regardless
of their role, can reach out to one another as equals.
Participants are seated in a circle of chairs with no tables. The physical format
of the circle symbolizes shared leadership, equality, connection and inclusion. It
also promotes focus, accountability and participation from all.
The circle process typically involves four stages:
- Acceptance The community and the immediately affected parties determine whether the circle process is appropriate for the situation.
- Preparation Separate circles for various interests (family, social workers) are held to explore issues and concerns and prepare all parties to participate effectively. Thorough preparation is critical to the overall effectiveness of the circle process. Preparation includes identifying possible supporters in the natural network of the family to participate in the process.
- Gathering All parties are brought together to express feelings and concerns and to develop mutually acceptable solutions to issues identified.
- Follow-up Regular communication and check-ins are used to assess progress and adjust agreements
as conditions change.