In preparation for the Peace Talks Simulation that takes place every year we were excited to hold the first Mediator Leadership Course for the EMIS students. At the Charney Resolution Center, we, together with the EMIS team and teachers, made an effort to impart knowledge in recognizing and respecting the other’s narrative and understanding the needs of both sides, Israeli and Palestinian, throughout the year to all students.

I believe that 3 parameters are required in order to successfully deal with the process of resolving conflicts of any kind:

1. Recognize and respect the other's narrative.
2. Identify and understand the needs of the other (with an emphasis on the needs and not the desires).
3. Use tools from the world of mediation.

To complement the 3 parameters, it is essential for us as a conflict resolution center to teach at least some of the students the tools to bridge the gap between conflicting parties.
The main goals set for the mediation course were:

1. Developing awareness and instilling a different point of reference for the field of conflicts.
2. Acquiring basic skills for coping with conflict situations and integrative negotiations.
3. Training to resolve disputes as a third party through school mediation.
4. Creating an infrastructure for the use of mediation and integrative negotiations as critical tools for conflict resolution in the school community.

Student Feedback:

Mehdi: “I can now better comprehend, assimilate, and analyze the various scenarios that are regularly presented to me.”

Ada T: “I think the course was helpful in the aspect of learning how to focus on the solutions and calm down a tense situation.”

Ramez: “This course made us see the world in a different way by being neutral and non-judgmental.”

We thank the Gome Gevim mediation company and especially Limor Sessler for the excellent guidance and are looking forward to another successful course next year.