A Resolution by the World Mediation Forum Adopting

the Third Thursday in October as ‘International Conflict Resolution Day.’

WHEREAS conflict resolution encompasses mediation, arbitration, facilitation, conciliation, collaborative decision-making and other formal and informal responses to conflict; and

WHEREAS, conflict resolution processes empower individuals, families, villages, communities, organisations, businesses, and nations to foster communication and devise solutions that are tailored to their particular needs and interests; and

WHEREAS, conflict resolution is being taught and practiced by children and adults of all ages in many school systems, colleges, universities and graduate programs throughout the world, not only as a way of solving individual disputes, but also as a means towards a more peaceful society; and

WHEREAS, community-based programs are fairly and equitably resolving neighbourhood and community conflicts, thereby strengthening community relationships; and

WHEREAS, collaborative responses to conflicts are being used by administrative agencies, businesses, and courts to effectively and efficiently resolve disputes; and

WHEREAS, professional associations of conflict resolvers are promoting the peaceful and creative resolution of disputes; and

WHEREAS, the first Conflict Resolution Day, held on October 20, 2005 was successful in promoting awareness of mediation, arbitration, conciliation and other creative, peaceful means of resolving conflict in schools, families, businesses, communities, governments and the legal system; recognizing the significant contributions of peaceful conflict resolvers; and was recognized and celebrated by individuals, organisations and governing bodies around the world;

NOW, THEREFORE, THE WORLD MEDIATION FORUM DOES HEREBY RESOLVE, DETERMINE, AND ORDER AS FOLLOWS:

1. That annually, the third Thursday in October is designated, for the purpose of celebration and education, as ‘International Conflict Resolution Day’; and

2. That the World Mediation Forum urges conflict resolvers and conflict resolution associations and organisations around the world to celebrate ‘International Conflict Resolution Day’ with appropriate ceremonies, activities, and educational programs.