     Exercise Split into a groups of 5 groups Give each group a paper with one type of approach handling conflict Ask each group to discuss the advantages and disadvantages of the approach they have been given After 15 minutes, ask all the groups to come together and make presentations on their contributions. 8. Understanding Conflicts We can understand conflicts by analysing them. The analysis involves identifying the existing conflicts, causes of the conflicts and what makes the conflicts continue. It is important to observe the people involved in the conflict, the relationships between the victims and the perpetrator. Understanding these conflict dynamics help us to identify better or best methods to deal with the conflicts. We should ask many questions about the existing or potential conflicts in order for us to be able to prevent them and to minimise their impact. Questions to ask when analyzing conflicts • • • • • • • • • What is the conflict issue Why does the conflict (the issue) exist? What are the positions of the conflicting parties? Who are the main players in the conflict? Who are the other players, including the marginalized? What are the relationships between all the parties and how can they be represented on the map? What are the alliances, close contacts, broken relationships, and confrontations? What are the possible interventions to help to deal with the conflict? What can be done to address the conflict or conflicts? Who can best do it? When is the best moment? What groundwork needs to be beforehand, what structures can be built afterwards? a) Conflict Tree To best analyse conflicts within our communities in a simple way, we can use a conflict tree. A Conflict Tree is a visual tool used to better understand identified conflicts in terms of their causes and effects. It is a useful tool for stimulating group discussions about conflict, reaching agreement on the core problem, understanding the links among causes and effects, and identifying conflict issues that could and should be addressed (International Institute for Sustainable Development, 2015). 12 ©Heal Zim 2016