Negotiating and Mediating Peace in Africa

Last year, a law review solicited my thoughts about, in their words, pushing the envelope with social justice and negotiating peace in a world dominated by power and violence. Taking their language literally, one must ask how to effectively address contemporary obstacles to ensure that the message and, most importantly, the means of justice are truly delivered to those in need. One answer-which may seem obvious to readers but is actually much too rare in practice-is to work with, empower, and support the conflict work of the community members themselves. This article introduces the plans of five African professionals, demonstrating their skill and leadership as members of diasporas and domestic circles. All five African professionals are intent on serving their communities through offering the best of conflict resolution practice, including integrative bargaining and restorative victim-offender mediation