9.45pm- The above quote was said by Professor Johan Galtung, who gave our second lecture of the day. I suggest you Google him and read about the incredible things he has done during his life. He is 80 years old but remains youthful, energetic, witty and possesses tremendous wisdom and knowledge. The main emphasis of his lecture and subsequent Q&A session was mediation as a means of conflict resolution. He has worked as a mediator since 1967 and has been at the forefront of international affairs ever since, mediating in over 1000 conflict situations. He never accepts payment for his work. According to him the most important and first step in conflict resolution is listening to the 'other side'. After that, talking with the 'other side' and this results in, surprisingly easy ways to find a solution. The key to mediation is talking to each 'side' individually as this allows them freedom to talk without the fear of appearing weak. This leads to the exploration of possible solutions which hopefully will then develop into something lasting. The first question he always asks is "What is the Nothern Ireland/ Israel/ Palestine/Afghanistan..... which you would like to see?".During his talks he merely mentioned that he was in Cuba in 1972, Ecuador and Chile,Nothern Ireland, Kosovo, has spoken to both the Israelis and Palestinians for decades and has talked to the Taliban recently. In 1971 he proposed a solution to the Arab/ Israeli conflict which he believes is still applicable today- a Middle Eastern Community like the E.C., inclusive of both Israel and Palestine. In his own words, it was a "total failure". Yet he remains hopeful that the next generation will implement his vision. So do I. He was also able to quote the Taliban first hand, share their beliefs and say how Washington does not know their wishes as they do not talk to them. He said that the Taliban oppose secularism and therefore do not even want water aid as it is 'secular' water. They also do not believe Kabul to be the worthy capital of Afghanistan and, unsurprisingly, are fed up of being invaded. One of the most striking things he said was that he believed the US will become 'extinct' from international politics and economics within the next 15 years. Another thing that struck me was that he said conflict is not due to misunderstanding but precise understanding. The fact that the two sides know what the other wants causes them to deny them their wishes. Therefore there is a need for creativity and to "make a new reality- namely a community."
Well that was the second speaker of the day but before that I attended 4 workshops. They were, in order, one on understanding stereotypes given by an AC graduate, a follow on workshop from this morning's lecture on conflict by Rae McGrath, an Israel/Palestine workshop and education as a tool for reducing conflict. The highlight for me was the Israeli/ Palestinian one given by my co-years from both countries. They agreed to disagree but to respect each other and both want a Palestinian state. I sat there, just thinking how surreal it was for me to be in a castle in Wales listening to two people, whose nations are enemies, talking about respect and peace TOGETHER. Hearing how one lives 100m from the wall in Palestine and the hardships of life under an 'Aparthied' whilst the other, coincidentally, lives in the city directly the other side of the wall in Israel and talks of the rocket attacks that puncture daily life is a surreal experience. This is why I came to AC and this is why I appreciate every moment I have here.
Well I am going to go and plan for tomorrow now. It is Diwrnod Santes Dwynwen( Welsh Valentines Day) and so my Welsh co-year and I are going to cook. It is also the second day of the Peace conference and I can't wait. I am going to have a shower and contemplate all that I have heard and seen today. I may need to take a very long shower!! Night all.
