Mediators Without Borders and the Efficacy of Community Mediation Centers in Israel and Palestine

This Comment will also discuss whether using specific techniques from each center can help restore relations between the people of Israel and Palestine. “[C]ulture is not posited as the cause of conflict, instead, it is intertwined with conflict and the processes of resolution.” What makes each center successful is that they embrace cultural differences. Instead of viewing cultural differences as an obstacle to peace they use cultural norms like Sulha, a traditional Arab way to resolve conflict, to invite peace. Each of these processes maintains a person’s dignity through the resolution process, and helps each party see the opposing party as a person. Each mediation center serves different needs and functions; however, they all allow the parties to explore cultural constraints in a non-binding, controlled environment. Imagine if there were more centers or programs that helped mediate differences at a personal, rather than national, level. Instead of focusing on government relations, the focus would switch to everyday relationships between Palestinians and Israelis. If both sides were given a forum to verbalize their frustrations in a safe and controlled environment, it would allow for real healing and understanding