Nineteenth International Conference on New Directions in the Humanities

Abstract

With recent changes in the population demographics all around the world, it is essential for future practitioners to gain proper knowledge and skills in cultural competence. This workshop offers an overview of the cultural aspects of peacebuilding and discusses key issues on the impact of culture in providing an effective response in conflict management. A critical examination of different attitudes towards peace-building will be promoted through case studies and self-assessment. The case-based approach encourages innovative thinking and new solutions in addressing the parties’ cultural needs and wants when assessing a conflict situation. By addressing biases and stereotypes and other obstacles on understanding conflict styles and beliefs towards the peacemaking process, culturally competent mediators, lawyers, and social workers can better work in an integrated system. This workshop also promotes the development of communication and ethical practice as part of interprofessional education core competencies. We examine how different cultures and groups see fundamental concepts in peace and conflict, expands the participants’ intellectual horizons (in areas of peace and conflict studies), and fosters life-long learning skills (principled negotiation).