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Mediating Self-Determination Conflicts

By Sasakawa Peace Foundation and Conciliation Resources


December 11, 2024

Conflicts arising from or resulting in self-determination claims have for decades accounted for half the conflicts in the world. This report brings together learning from the initial phase of a three-year partnership between the Sasakawa Peace Foundation and Conciliation Resources looking at how a transformative approach to peace mediation can help prevent, manage or resolve self-determination conflicts. The report examines what distinct mediation and peacebuilding challenges self-determination conflicts present; what options and approaches mediation and peace practitioners can use to help address them; and how mediation and peace support processes can better connect across different groups, levels and spaces in effectively addressing these conflicts.

Content

Introduction

1. Understanding international legal and political frameworks

   1.1. Legal framework
   1.2. Underlying factors and variables in SD conflicts and claims    

2. Options and trends in negotiated agreements 
   2.1. Examples of addressing SD in peace settlements
   2.2. Constitutional approaches 

3. Practice insights: peace and mediation support in SD conflicts 
   3.1. Principles and guidance for engagement 
   3.2. Peace and mediation support in SD conflicts: examples and lessons from practice    

4. Dialogue and mediation in SD conflicts: connections and influences 

   4.1. Internal dynamics – connecting across levels and spaces within a SD conflict context    
   4.2. External dynamics – outside influences and geopolitics    
   4.3. Peace practitioner roles     

5. Findings and forward steps 

Key resources 

Annex 1: Mapping the situation 

References
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Recent Publications

Reports on the Women, Peace and Security (WPS) Agenda in the Philippines

Reports on the Women, Peace and Security (WPS) Agenda in the Philippines

The Peacebuilding Program of the Sasakawa Peace Foundation promotes the Women, Peace and Security (WPS) agenda as one of its core pillars. In collaboration with PLCPD (Philippine Legislators' Committee on Population and Development), we have produced three reports aimed at deepening the understanding of the WPS agenda and its implementation in the Philippines. These reports aim to serve as valuable resources for policymakers, researchers, civil society organizations, academic institutions, and other stakeholders engaged in peacebuilding and gender equality.

By Filantropi Indonesia

September 29, 2025
Soft Recognition: Enabling Participation of Self-Determination Groups in Intergovernmental Organisations

Soft Recognition: Enabling Participation of Self-Determination Groups in Intergovernmental Organisations

This report examines the interrelationship between international affairs and domestic politics. In today's globalized world, challenges such as climate change, migration, and pandemics transcend national borders and influence domestic issues across countries. The report specifically focuses on "soft recognition" mechanisms that enable self-determining groups to participate in intergovernmental organizations, exploring both the benefits this participation offers and its potential for conflict resolution. The findings provide valuable insights for states and multilateral organizations alike.

March 24, 2025
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