Policy mediation
Policy mediation supports governments and stakeholders in reaching a common understanding on complex social issues.
Policies of governments and organisations can lead to conflicts with stakeholders. In most cases, these conflicts arise from misunderstandings in communication. Stakeholders feel that their interests have not been sufficiently taken into account in the planning process. With irritations and tensions as a result. Sometimes emotions run so high that parties dig in, delay proceedings and engage in a legal battle. Often resulting in negative media attention.
What kind of policy conflicts may arise?
Policy conflicts can occur within spatial planning, the environment, care, welfare and security and can involve, for example:
- on the construction of roads;
- the (re)organisation of neighbourhoods;
- The construction of a mosque;
- expansion of a chemical plant;
- about the arrival of a nursing home;
- about the arrival of an asylum seekers’ centre;
When communication is not good, misunderstandings and irritations can grow into conflicts and legal proceedings.
A policy mediator can help
Together with the parties, the policy mediator identifies the interests, takes stock of the possibilities, keeps the relationship between the parties workable and contributes to finding a solution. This can save a lot of time and money. First of all, confidential talks are held with each party individually. It then determines who should sit down together to resolve the conflict. In a number of conversations, the parties look for a solution to the problem under the mediator’s guidance. A solution that must be acceptable to all parties. The added value of the mediator is that he has a neutral and independent role.
If you want an acceptable solution to the conflict, please contact us! Telephone number: 070 – 250 10 99
Who chooses the policy mediator?
In a policy conflict, it is usually the local government that chooses a mediator. But the mediator can also be chosen by one of the stakeholders. The costs are paid by the usually paid by the client or a distribution key is used between the different parties.
What does a policy mediation process look like?
Intake interview
In an individual intake interview, the conflict situation is mapped out. The first meeting also reveals whether there is a click with the mediator. In order to dare to talk openly about matters, it is important that the party feels at ease with the mediator and has confidence.
Joint mediation meeting
After the intake interview, a plan of action is drawn up and joint mediation meetings are held, during which the parties sit down with the mediator. The mediator listens, asks questions, summarises and guides the parties through various discussion and negotiation techniques to a solution acceptable to them.
How long does the process take?
The duration depends on the nature of the conflict and the course of the process. Usually, a solution is found within 3-6 months.
