Debriefing Mediators to Learn from Their Experiences by Simon J. A. Mason and Matthias Siegfried - HTML preview

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STEP 4

Disseminate the Knowledge Acquired

 

Ideally, the task of disseminating the knowledge acquired from the process of debriefing a mediator is a joint endeavor, involving the mediator, the interviewer, and the staff of the organization supporting the interviewer or mediator. The mediator, for example, might elaborate upon the insights developed during the interview at workshops and conferences. The interviewer's role could continue well beyond preparing a report and involve, for instance, recruiting former interviewees to participate in a training program for mediators. The desk officer who supported the interviewer in the analysis of the case might come across a similar challenge in another case she or he is dealing with, and might introduce the two mediators to one another to exchange ideas. The person in charge of the mediator's division might develop the division's goals and policies in light of the lessons unearthed by the debriefing process.

 

In short, the opportunities for dissemination are numerous and varied, and they certainly need not involve the document that distills the results of an interview. Even so, that document can be a valuable learning tool if it reaches the right audience.

 

Identify Target Audiences and Shape the Document Accordingly

 

Possible target audiences for some version of the debriefing document include:

 

  • other mediators and related staff (desk officers, managers) within the organization sponsoring the debriefing

 

  • politicians and officials developing the policy frameworks for mediation engagements

 

  • a wider, professional mediator and mediation support community

 

  • conflict parties and negotiators who will be in contact with mediators

 

  • students and researchers in peace and conflict studies

 

  • a wider public interested in mediation and peace work.

 

The basic debriefing document will often have to be adapted to suit a particular audience, not least because of considerations regarding access control.

 

The style of the document, and the manner in which it is distributed, should also be shaped by the nature of the target audience. Scholarly a