Transformative Conflict Tools
Transformative Conflict Tools
These tools were designed in response to the conflicts that were seen to be coming up in XR and are intended to help people engage with conflicts within their groups in a self-organising way, without needing to engage a third party like the conflict team. They are inspired and informed by well-established techniques and experienced conflict practitioners, as well as the personal experience of the TCT (Transformative Conflict Team).
They can be understood as something like an artist’s paint box, where you - the artist - must actually use them, to make them come alive and paint the metaphorical picture. You should select or adapt the tools according to your circumstance - choosing the brushes, mixing the paints and so on - and use your skill, care, creativity and judgment to transform conflicts - mapping out the painting, applying paint to the canvas etc., to create a beautiful scene of peace and harmony! Disclaimer: the first picture you paint might not be exactly as you had envisaged it, but practice makes perfect!
Every conflict is unique and will require a unique response. That said, ingredients like curiosity, empathy, kindness and humility are helpful, if not crucial, in any situation. Be aware that the tools cannot replace these ‘soft qualities’ like a willingness to listen and to work together. Where such qualities are totally absent, and dialogue is impossible, the tools might not be appropriate and some outside intervention may be necessary. Use your judgement and talk with supportive colleagues or friends to work out the best way of engaging with your unique conflict.
The tools are necessarily borne out of a particular culture and context and may not be perfect or applicable to every situation or cultural context. One particular blind spot was around issues of racism, power and oppression. These tools may or may not be suitable or able to address situations where these dynamics are more pronounced.
That said, we believe they can be of great benefit to a wide variety of groups working together, or personal relationships.
Do not be fooled that the tools can offer a quick fix to conflicts. Engaging with conflicts is a skill that we aren’t usually taught in school, and may go against our ingrained habits. It may be helpful to view your conflict engagement practice as a long term investment that will benefit from cycles of study, application and reflection. A growth mindset and an ongoing commitment to practice and learning will lead to ‘conflict proficiency’ that will bring many benefits to you and those around you.
Also be aware that there is quite a lot to read and it may require some concentration, so take your time. At the time of writing, the TCT is hoping to offer the tools in non-written formats and we regret that this is not yet complete. We can potentially offer workshops so do get in touch if you’d like to request one for your group.
Please read, digest, and proceed with courage and care. Good luck!
Transforming Enemy Images with LASER - a short exercise to do by yourself or with a friendly listener when you are experiencing tensions or difficulties with another person.
1 to 1 ‘Conflict Conversation’ guide - a guide to help two people have a conversation about a conflict or tension between them
Tension Shifting - a technique to address difficulties periodically within your group
Group Agreements - a guide to creating agreements around how to work together to prevent harmful conflict and promote collaboration