<![CDATA[The Mediator's Studio]]>0dbc8bbc-5e7a-570b-b146-254b9c65268eWed, 15 Oct 2025 12:07:07 +0000Captivate.fmAn Oslo Forum podcasthttps://artwork.captivate.fm/486f5396-9f75-4606-9a4d-932320e77547/EL00pydrHGQPpI9BHo7M__dn.jpgThe Mediator's StudioAn Oslo Forum podcastAn Oslo Forum podcastWhat happens behind closed doors when peace agreements are negotiated? The Mediator’s Studio gives you a glimpse into the normally hidden world of peace diplomacy. Host Adam Cooper brings you first-hand stories from mediators, armed groups and governments on what it takes to end wars. The Mediator’s Studio is a podcast from the Oslo Forum, the world’s leading mediation retreat. It’s brought to you by the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue.https://hdcentre.org/series/the-mediators-studio/falseepisodicnopodcastUhuru Kenyatta on using coffee breaks to advance mediationUhuru Kenyatta on using coffee breaks to advance mediationThe fourth President of Kenya, Uhuru Kenyatta, shares his unique perspectives on mediation efforts both during his tenure as head of state and within regional peace initiatives, including in Eastern DRC and Ethiopia’s Tigray region. He highlights the challenges posed by frequent changes in mediators and the importance of collaboration to build on prior progress and address root causes. As the son of Kenya’s first president, he reflects on invaluable lessons passed down from his father and on early encounters with various heads of state during his childhood. President Kenyatta also opens up about his passion for politics while candidly discussing the 2007-2008 electoral violence that shook Kenya and his leadership, and the path forward toward lasting peace.

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]]>The fourth President of Kenya, Uhuru Kenyatta, shares his unique perspectives on mediation efforts both during his tenure as head of state and within regional peace initiatives, including in Eastern DRC and Ethiopia’s Tigray region. He highlights the challenges posed by frequent changes in mediators and the importance of collaboration to build on prior progress and address root causes. As the son of Kenya’s first president, he reflects on invaluable lessons passed down from his father and on early encounters with various heads of state during his childhood. President Kenyatta also opens up about his passion for politics while candidly discussing the 2007-2008 electoral violence that shook Kenya and his leadership, and the path forward toward lasting peace.

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]]>360c3488-549a-41f6-8c02-d89d9c957c16Tue, 14 Oct 2025 06:00:00 +020037:04falsefull7557Claire Hajaj on why talking to guys with guns is the only wayClaire Hajaj on why talking to guys with guns is the only wayBorn to a Palestinian father and a Jewish mother, Clare Hajaj grew up with an intimate understanding of how deeply divided narratives can shape lives—and conflicts. Now Executive Director of Inter Mediate, she works behind the scenes to support dialogue in some of the world’s most protracted crises. She explains how each negotiation builds on past failures and shares insights from working with political leaders in Afghanistan and Myanmar. Speaking about her recent work in Haiti, Hajaj explores the growing challenge of mediating in contexts where criminal violence, rather than ideology, holds sway. A novelist as well as a mediator, she draws compelling parallels between storytelling and peacemaking: both seek structure, emotional truth, and the hope of resolution.

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]]>Born to a Palestinian father and a Jewish mother, Clare Hajaj grew up with an intimate understanding of how deeply divided narratives can shape lives—and conflicts. Now Executive Director of Inter Mediate, she works behind the scenes to support dialogue in some of the world’s most protracted crises. She explains how each negotiation builds on past failures and shares insights from working with political leaders in Afghanistan and Myanmar. Speaking about her recent work in Haiti, Hajaj explores the growing challenge of mediating in contexts where criminal violence, rather than ideology, holds sway. A novelist as well as a mediator, she draws compelling parallels between storytelling and peacemaking: both seek structure, emotional truth, and the hope of resolution.

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]]>76ffffe9-5aab-4464-9352-46527837952cTue, 07 Oct 2025 04:00:00 +020042:01falsefull7447Nazih Elnaggary on when to step in and when to hold backNazih Elnaggary on when to step in and when to hold backEgyptian diplomat Nazih Elnaggary shares hard-won lessons from a career bridging fault lines across the Middle East—and now between Russia and the West. He recounts brokering compromises among Syrian opposition groups in Cairo during the early years of Syria’s civil war, and mediating political tensions in Lebanon to help form a government. Now Egypt’s Ambassador to Russia, Elnaggary explains how he builds understanding amid sharply divided worldviews to keep dialogue alive.

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]]>Egyptian diplomat Nazih Elnaggary shares hard-won lessons from a career bridging fault lines across the Middle East—and now between Russia and the West. He recounts brokering compromises among Syrian opposition groups in Cairo during the early years of Syria’s civil war, and mediating political tensions in Lebanon to help form a government. Now Egypt’s Ambassador to Russia, Elnaggary explains how he builds understanding amid sharply divided worldviews to keep dialogue alive.

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]]>ac31276c-cd85-4a3a-a225-74c52653f08cTue, 30 Sep 2025 06:00:00 +020035:47falsefull7337Kyung-wha Kang on quiet diplomacyKyung-wha Kang on quiet diplomacyFormer South Korean Foreign Minister Kyung-wha Kang reflects on the power of diplomacy in efforts toward peace on the Korean Peninsula. From her early days as a translator for President Kim Dae-jung to leading inter-Korean talks as Foreign Minister, she shares rare insights into moments of breakthrough—and breakdown. She recalls the emotional highs of North and South marching under one flag at the Olympics, the delicate choreography of summit diplomacy, and the deep disappointment after the collapse of US–North Korea talks. She also draws on her years working for the UN on human rights and humanitarian issues in conflict zones.

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]]>Former South Korean Foreign Minister Kyung-wha Kang reflects on the power of diplomacy in efforts toward peace on the Korean Peninsula. From her early days as a translator for President Kim Dae-jung to leading inter-Korean talks as Foreign Minister, she shares rare insights into moments of breakthrough—and breakdown. She recalls the emotional highs of North and South marching under one flag at the Olympics, the delicate choreography of summit diplomacy, and the deep disappointment after the collapse of US–North Korea talks. She also draws on her years working for the UN on human rights and humanitarian issues in conflict zones.

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]]>93431f56-69c6-490e-9b1e-6cf5fcb09b9bTue, 23 Sep 2025 06:00:00 +020035:44falsefull7227Hans Grundberg on the one rule in mediation – no liesHans Grundberg on the one rule in mediation - no liesUN Special Envoy for Yemen, Hans Grundberg pulls back the curtain on high-stakes mediation efforts in Yemen. He takes us inside tense negotiations in a frosty castle near Stockholm, recounts how he juggles the competing interests of international players at the UN Security Council, and explains how he steers through mounting regional crises.

Grundberg also underscores the strength of behind-the-scenes teamwork and points to real progress—like the 2022 nationwide truce, the reopening of Sanaa airport, and the release of

detainees. He shares candid insights into how he stays resilient and mentally grounded amid the pressure and unpredictability of armed conflict.

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]]>UN Special Envoy for Yemen, Hans Grundberg pulls back the curtain on high-stakes mediation efforts in Yemen. He takes us inside tense negotiations in a frosty castle near Stockholm, recounts how he juggles the competing interests of international players at the UN Security Council, and explains how he steers through mounting regional crises.

Grundberg also underscores the strength of behind-the-scenes teamwork and points to real progress—like the 2022 nationwide truce, the reopening of Sanaa airport, and the release of

detainees. He shares candid insights into how he stays resilient and mentally grounded amid the pressure and unpredictability of armed conflict.

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]]>a4b24f0e-a2b6-4b16-a8b0-110b779c0f86Tue, 16 Sep 2025 10:18:00 +020036:39falsefull7117Sneak Peek: The Mediator’s Studio – Season 7Sneak Peek: The Mediator’s Studio – Season 7Recorded mostly at the Oslo Forum in June 2025, Season 7 of The Mediator’s Studio offers a rare window into the inner lives of those working to defuse some of the world’s most complex and protracted conflicts. Across five compelling episodes, mediators, diplomats, and envoys reflect on the delicate craft of dialogue—from backchannel negotiations to public diplomacy.

This season features conversations with a novelist-turned-mediator who works behind the scenes in crises from Myanmar and Afghanistan to gang-controlled Haiti; the UN’s envoy to Yemen revealing the emotional toll of high-stakes negotiations; and a former head of state who believes real breakthroughs can happen over coffee breaks. Listeners will also hear from South Korea’s first female Foreign Minister on inter-Korean diplomacy and an Egyptian ambassador navigating tensions from Beirut to Moscow.

These stories offer an unfiltered look at the challenges, humanity, and hope at the heart of mediation.


]]>Recorded mostly at the Oslo Forum in June 2025, Season 7 of The Mediator’s Studio offers a rare window into the inner lives of those working to defuse some of the world’s most complex and protracted conflicts. Across five compelling episodes, mediators, diplomats, and envoys reflect on the delicate craft of dialogue—from backchannel negotiations to public diplomacy.

This season features conversations with a novelist-turned-mediator who works behind the scenes in crises from Myanmar and Afghanistan to gang-controlled Haiti; the UN’s envoy to Yemen revealing the emotional toll of high-stakes negotiations; and a former head of state who believes real breakthroughs can happen over coffee breaks. Listeners will also hear from South Korea’s first female Foreign Minister on inter-Korean diplomacy and an Egyptian ambassador navigating tensions from Beirut to Moscow.

These stories offer an unfiltered look at the challenges, humanity, and hope at the heart of mediation.


]]>f604cef5-4304-4c2b-b8b3-73d0974ddf9bFri, 12 Sep 2025 07:59:00 +020002:26falsetrailer77Jonathan Powell on angel papers and influencing the great SatanJonathan Powell on angel papers and influencing the great SatanBritish negotiator turned mediator Jonathan Powell reveals the ebb and flow of the world’s major peace processes. He takes us through secret negotiations that led to the Good Friday Agreement in Northern Ireland and the following decade of talks on its implementation. He drew on this experience to support the dialogue with ETA in Spain, as well as the negotiation between the Colombian government and the FARC to end Latin America’s longest civil war. Jonathan Powell shares insights from meeting conflict parties in their hideouts, as well as the lessons learned from advising leaders in Afghanistan and Myanmar.

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]]>British negotiator turned mediator Jonathan Powell reveals the ebb and flow of the world’s major peace processes. He takes us through secret negotiations that led to the Good Friday Agreement in Northern Ireland and the following decade of talks on its implementation. He drew on this experience to support the dialogue with ETA in Spain, as well as the negotiation between the Colombian government and the FARC to end Latin America’s longest civil war. Jonathan Powell shares insights from meeting conflict parties in their hideouts, as well as the lessons learned from advising leaders in Afghanistan and Myanmar.

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]]>cc25d138-64f1-458a-b3e1-78a3aa84a847Tue, 01 Oct 2024 09:00:00 +020001:09:00falsefull6556Joanne Liu on no time to cryJoanne Liu on no time to cryFormer International President of Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) and current Chair of HD’s Board, Joanne Liu provides her humanitarian insights to better inform the practice of mediation. Inspired by an MSF doctor's book she read as a teenager, she has worked as a humanitarian paediatrician in conflict zones for 30 years. Joanne Liu recounts her negotiations for humanitarian access in Yemen, her advocacy at the UN for an emergency response to Ebola, and how she stood up to the US administration after the bombing of an MSF hospital in Afghanistan. She also shares what helps her to keep faith in humanity in the face of devastating crises.

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]]>Former International President of Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) and current Chair of HD’s Board, Joanne Liu provides her humanitarian insights to better inform the practice of mediation. Inspired by an MSF doctor's book she read as a teenager, she has worked as a humanitarian paediatrician in conflict zones for 30 years. Joanne Liu recounts her negotiations for humanitarian access in Yemen, her advocacy at the UN for an emergency response to Ebola, and how she stood up to the US administration after the bombing of an MSF hospital in Afghanistan. She also shares what helps her to keep faith in humanity in the face of devastating crises.

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]]>ae0f0115-e6c9-46ed-885a-dc763f6f9019Wed, 25 Sep 2024 08:30:00 +020031:31falsefull6446Molly Phee on conflict negotiations the American wayMolly Phee on conflict negotiations the American waySenior US diplomat Molly Phee reflects on her mediation and negotiation experience in the last three decades. She recalls leveraging her influence to drive parties to a peace agreement in South Sudan and takes us behind the scenes of intense negotiations with the Taliban in Afghanistan from 2018 to 2020. As the current US Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs, she discusses her approach to addressing the aftermaths of military coups in the Sahel, supporting talks in Sudan, and using creative approaches to defuse tensions in the Great Lakes region.

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]]>Senior US diplomat Molly Phee reflects on her mediation and negotiation experience in the last three decades. She recalls leveraging her influence to drive parties to a peace agreement in South Sudan and takes us behind the scenes of intense negotiations with the Taliban in Afghanistan from 2018 to 2020. As the current US Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs, she discusses her approach to addressing the aftermaths of military coups in the Sahel, supporting talks in Sudan, and using creative approaches to defuse tensions in the Great Lakes region.

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]]>acad9e4a-5b13-4f46-942d-81b6619fe11eWed, 18 Sep 2024 09:00:00 +020034:40falsefull6336Retno Marsudi on the art of inter-state mediationRetno Marsudi on the art of inter-state mediationIndonesia’s Foreign Minister takes stock of her country’s peacemaking initiatives over the past decade. In this episode, recorded at the Oslo Forum in June 2024, she explains how Indonesia is trying to make a difference in thorny conflicts, from Afghanistan to the Middle East and Myanmar. As the first female foreign minister of the world’s largest Muslim country, Retno Marsudi fervently advocates for the inclusion of women in diplomacy and peace processes. She shares her experience of overcoming frustration and not giving up, especially in mediating protracted conflicts.

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]]>Indonesia’s Foreign Minister takes stock of her country’s peacemaking initiatives over the past decade. In this episode, recorded at the Oslo Forum in June 2024, she explains how Indonesia is trying to make a difference in thorny conflicts, from Afghanistan to the Middle East and Myanmar. As the first female foreign minister of the world’s largest Muslim country, Retno Marsudi fervently advocates for the inclusion of women in diplomacy and peace processes. She shares her experience of overcoming frustration and not giving up, especially in mediating protracted conflicts.

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]]>a19940bb-c7d3-4959-8c52-90dec6bad33aWed, 11 Sep 2024 09:00:00 +020020:55falsefull6226Nicholas Haysom on mediators as managersNicholas Haysom on mediators as managersIn his first-ever podcast, veteran mediator and head of the UN Mission in South Sudan Nicholas Haysom retraces three decades of peacemaking in Sudan, South Sudan, and Afghanistan. He recalls how his activism against Apartheid led him to become Nelson Mandela’s Chief Legal Adviser and launched his career in mediation. He reflects on why the time when peacemakers chose to talk to some and not to others has long passed. While drawing lessons that can be applied to current peace efforts, he explains how the internationalisation of intra-state conflicts has complicated conflict resolution processes.

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]]>In his first-ever podcast, veteran mediator and head of the UN Mission in South Sudan Nicholas Haysom retraces three decades of peacemaking in Sudan, South Sudan, and Afghanistan. He recalls how his activism against Apartheid led him to become Nelson Mandela’s Chief Legal Adviser and launched his career in mediation. He reflects on why the time when peacemakers chose to talk to some and not to others has long passed. While drawing lessons that can be applied to current peace efforts, he explains how the internationalisation of intra-state conflicts has complicated conflict resolution processes.

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]]>27174b0c-f236-40b4-98d7-a07bdc4719baWed, 04 Sep 2024 09:00:00 +020038:13falsefull6116Sneak Peek: The Mediator’s Studio – Season 6Sneak Peek: The Mediator’s Studio – Season 6Recorded in June 2024 at the Oslo Forum, season 6 takes you behind the scenes of negotiations to end some of the most violent conflicts of our time. Over five episodes, prominent voices share their insights on their ways to engage with conflict parties. Guests in this season include state diplomats who navigate geopolitics in support of peace, a humanitarian paediatrician who stood up to the Obama administration, a government negotiator turned private mediator, and a veteran UN peacemaker who has gone through the thick and thin of major mediation processes.

]]>Recorded in June 2024 at the Oslo Forum, season 6 takes you behind the scenes of negotiations to end some of the most violent conflicts of our time. Over five episodes, prominent voices share their insights on their ways to engage with conflict parties. Guests in this season include state diplomats who navigate geopolitics in support of peace, a humanitarian paediatrician who stood up to the Obama administration, a government negotiator turned private mediator, and a veteran UN peacemaker who has gone through the thick and thin of major mediation processes.

]]>8efa16ac-c9e1-4fb9-b7d9-0b3e382879b0Wed, 28 Aug 2024 09:00:00 +020001:42falsetrailer66Alvaro de Soto on opportunities seized in El Salvador and missed in the Middle EastAlvaro de Soto on opportunities seized in El Salvador and missed in the Middle EastAs a Peruvian diplomat with a 25-year career at the United Nations, Alvaro de Soto has dedicated fifty years of his life to diplomacy and conflict resolution across the globe. From negotiations with Hamas and the Quartet on the Middle East to shuttling between the FMLN and the El Salvador government, Alvaro de Soto shares a tour de force account that offers crucial insights into the craft of mediation. His first-hand narrative reveals lessons learned from his experiences and mentors, highlighting the significance of temperament over technique and effective ways to publicly spotlight agreements for ensuring accountability in their implementation.

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]]>As a Peruvian diplomat with a 25-year career at the United Nations, Alvaro de Soto has dedicated fifty years of his life to diplomacy and conflict resolution across the globe. From negotiations with Hamas and the Quartet on the Middle East to shuttling between the FMLN and the El Salvador government, Alvaro de Soto shares a tour de force account that offers crucial insights into the craft of mediation. His first-hand narrative reveals lessons learned from his experiences and mentors, highlighting the significance of temperament over technique and effective ways to publicly spotlight agreements for ensuring accountability in their implementation.

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Find out more about the Oslo Forum’s journey over the past two decades.

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]]>9c492894-b209-4ee4-bc94-6b92d85b86ceThu, 08 Feb 2024 06:00:00 +020043:22falsefull5775Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka on women fighting for peacePhumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka on women fighting for peaceSouth Africa’s first female deputy president, Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, reflects on her journey as a member of the high-level African Union panel that facilitated the Pretoria agreement between the Ethiopian government and the Tigray People's Liberation Front. Beyond this process, she shares her experiences as the executive director of UN Women from 2013-2021, discusses her role as a female mediator, and reflects on the challenges associated with ensuring the engagement of women in peace processes in Colombia, Sudan, and South Sudan. Tracing her path as a student activist during the Apartheid era, she shares her story of finding courage and emphasises the need for perseverance to keep moving forward.

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]]>South Africa’s first female deputy president, Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, reflects on her journey as a member of the high-level African Union panel that facilitated the Pretoria agreement between the Ethiopian government and the Tigray People's Liberation Front. Beyond this process, she shares her experiences as the executive director of UN Women from 2013-2021, discusses her role as a female mediator, and reflects on the challenges associated with ensuring the engagement of women in peace processes in Colombia, Sudan, and South Sudan. Tracing her path as a student activist during the Apartheid era, she shares her story of finding courage and emphasises the need for perseverance to keep moving forward.

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]]>a8ecad32-2d56-484e-8f33-18c31709f657Thu, 01 Feb 2024 06:00:00 +020033:28falsefull5665Abbas Ibrahim on secrecy and sincerityAbbas Ibrahim on secrecy and sincerityVeteran Lebanese intelligence chief Abbas Ibrahim takes us behind the scenes of some of his most sensitive negotiations. He recalls a secret mission to a Palestinian refugee camp in the hope of diffusing tensions, and the painstaking shuttle diplomacy that eventually led to a border agreement between Lebanon and Israel. He also reveals his political aspirations, and explains why he is trusted to broker deals to free Western detainees in Syria and Iran.

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]]>Veteran Lebanese intelligence chief Abbas Ibrahim takes us behind the scenes of some of his most sensitive negotiations. He recalls a secret mission to a Palestinian refugee camp in the hope of diffusing tensions, and the painstaking shuttle diplomacy that eventually led to a border agreement between Lebanon and Israel. He also reveals his political aspirations, and explains why he is trusted to broker deals to free Western detainees in Syria and Iran.

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]]>d31ccc25-0270-4a61-893d-40d35520a227Thu, 25 Jan 2024 06:00:00 +020035:27falsefull5555Nisreen Elsaim on not waiting for the world to burnNisreen Elsaim on not waiting for the world to burnClimate mediator Nisreen Elsaim joins Adam Cooper to explore the intersection of activism and peacemaking. She recounts her role in the student uprisings that preceded the 2019 revolution in Sudan and reflects on how a shooting on campus changed her life. Now a self-confessed “climatolic,” she argues that climate mediation is crucial for conflict prevention, and looks ahead to a time when future generations won’t have to worry about climate change.

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]]>Climate mediator Nisreen Elsaim joins Adam Cooper to explore the intersection of activism and peacemaking. She recounts her role in the student uprisings that preceded the 2019 revolution in Sudan and reflects on how a shooting on campus changed her life. Now a self-confessed “climatolic,” she argues that climate mediation is crucial for conflict prevention, and looks ahead to a time when future generations won’t have to worry about climate change.

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]]>407562d1-4985-48d6-bb6d-28b0b3b9a448Thu, 18 Jan 2024 06:00:00 +020034:55falsefull5445Karim A. A. Khan KC on the slender sapling of international justiceKarim A. A. Khan KC on the slender sapling of international justiceKarim A. A. Khan KC, Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC), reflects on his path leading to joining the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia (ICTY) in 1997 and, more recently the ICC. He shares the intricacies and dilemmas faced by the ICC in grappling with the scope of international law. He articulates his vision for the future of the ICC as an institution capable of effectively contributing to global justice.

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]]>Karim A. A. Khan KC, Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC), reflects on his path leading to joining the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia (ICTY) in 1997 and, more recently the ICC. He shares the intricacies and dilemmas faced by the ICC in grappling with the scope of international law. He articulates his vision for the future of the ICC as an institution capable of effectively contributing to global justice.

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]]>54989b26-d058-40b3-ab6a-22bbfe6d0f10Thu, 11 Jan 2024 06:00:00 +020029:35falsefull5335Monica Juma on values in diplomacyMonica Juma on values in diplomacyMonica Juma, National Security Advisor to the President of Kenya, reflects on her extensive career in government and shares the lessons she has learned about peacemaking. She explains the challenges that the conflict in Sudan presents to mediators. She also discusses Kenya’s role in ending the Tigray crisis in Ethiopia. Additionally, she reflects on how meeting victims of the 2013 Westgate Mall attack in Nairobi affirmed the values she brings to her work.

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]]>Monica Juma, National Security Advisor to the President of Kenya, reflects on her extensive career in government and shares the lessons she has learned about peacemaking. She explains the challenges that the conflict in Sudan presents to mediators. She also discusses Kenya’s role in ending the Tigray crisis in Ethiopia. Additionally, she reflects on how meeting victims of the 2013 Westgate Mall attack in Nairobi affirmed the values she brings to her work.

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Find out more about the Oslo Forum’s journey over the past two decades.

https://hdcentre.org/insights/the-oslo-forum-at-20-a-visual-journey-of-mediation-and-peacemaking/

]]>69736a56-0fa0-4a60-8875-9ec791d75436Thu, 04 Jan 2024 06:00:00 +020022:28falsefull5225Mutlaq Al-Qahtani on Qatar’s approach to mediationMutlaq Al-Qahtani on Qatar’s approach to mediationSenior Qatari diplomat Mutlaq Al-Qahtani recalls his role in the 2020 Doha Agreement between the US and the Taliban, leading to the US withdrawal from Afghanistan. He reflects on his visit to Kabul in 2021 as the Taliban closed in on the city, sharing insights into his involvement in evacuating people and narrowly avoiding a bomb blast at the Kabul airport. Al Qahtani sheds light on his motivations to address the root causes of conflict.

We value your opinion! Please take a moment to share your feedback by participating in our 1 minute listener survey.

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Find out more about the Oslo Forum’s journey over the past two decades.

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]]>Senior Qatari diplomat Mutlaq Al-Qahtani recalls his role in the 2020 Doha Agreement between the US and the Taliban, leading to the US withdrawal from Afghanistan. He reflects on his visit to Kabul in 2021 as the Taliban closed in on the city, sharing insights into his involvement in evacuating people and narrowly avoiding a bomb blast at the Kabul airport. Al Qahtani sheds light on his motivations to address the root causes of conflict.

We value your opinion! Please take a moment to share your feedback by participating in our 1 minute listener survey.

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Find out more about the Oslo Forum’s journey over the past two decades.

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]]>4f77aed9-554e-41cc-b48b-6a73103ab4a7Thu, 28 Dec 2023 06:00:00 +020024:56falsefull5115The Mediator’s Studio – Episode 0, Season 5The Mediator’s Studio – Episode 0, Season 5Welcome to Season 5 of The Mediator's Studio podcast.

This special season marks the 20th anniversary of the Oslo Forum in 2023 – and its importance as the place where peacemakers meet.

Over seven episodes – most of them recorded at this year’s Oslo Forum retreat – we delve into deep conversations with prominent mediators on what it takes to make peace.

Because we sat down in June 2023, the interviews were done before the conflict in Gaza began. While some episodes reflect events predating the war, we are sure the insights are as relevant as ever about seeking peace in the region.

]]>Welcome to Season 5 of The Mediator's Studio podcast.

This special season marks the 20th anniversary of the Oslo Forum in 2023 – and its importance as the place where peacemakers meet.

Over seven episodes – most of them recorded at this year’s Oslo Forum retreat – we delve into deep conversations with prominent mediators on what it takes to make peace.

Because we sat down in June 2023, the interviews were done before the conflict in Gaza began. While some episodes reflect events predating the war, we are sure the insights are as relevant as ever about seeking peace in the region.

]]>68d044b0-57c3-4103-bcd5-af7b8ae55f84Thu, 21 Dec 2023 09:00:00 +020001:49falsefull55Ghaith Abdul Ahad on reporting from the front linesGhaith Abdul Ahad on reporting from the front linesJournalist Ghaith Abdul Ahad reflects on 20 years of reporting from conflict areas including Yemen and Afghanistan. Recalling the 2003 US invasion of Iraq that made him leave his former career as an architect, he reveals how he once talked his way into Saddam Hussein’s palace and what it’s like to sit across the table from people who committed atrocities. He also reflects on the challenges of mediation – arguing that people are often less concerned with ideological narratives than sheer survival and how armoured convoys and green zones can get in the way of real connection with people on the ground.

]]>Journalist Ghaith Abdul Ahad reflects on 20 years of reporting from conflict areas including Yemen and Afghanistan. Recalling the 2003 US invasion of Iraq that made him leave his former career as an architect, he reveals how he once talked his way into Saddam Hussein’s palace and what it’s like to sit across the table from people who committed atrocities. He also reflects on the challenges of mediation – arguing that people are often less concerned with ideological narratives than sheer survival and how armoured convoys and green zones can get in the way of real connection with people on the ground.

]]>a8b6181e-c7a7-45a2-8e36-232da71c8342Wed, 07 Dec 2022 05:00:00 +020019:51falsefull4774Annette Weber on the importance of working with insidersAnnette Weber on the importance of working with insidersEU Special Representative for the Horn of Africa, Annette Weber, provides us with a front-row perspective on her decades-long work in the region, beginning with her time as a young researcher writing about female combatants in South Sudan and Eritrea. She reveals why she still gets goose bumps when thinking about the recent revolution in Sudan, and discusses what it’s like to sit down in the evenings with people who have been fighting each other during the day.

]]>EU Special Representative for the Horn of Africa, Annette Weber, provides us with a front-row perspective on her decades-long work in the region, beginning with her time as a young researcher writing about female combatants in South Sudan and Eritrea. She reveals why she still gets goose bumps when thinking about the recent revolution in Sudan, and discusses what it’s like to sit down in the evenings with people who have been fighting each other during the day.

]]>62757554-59d2-44f3-9ce6-32e8ea572768Wed, 30 Nov 2022 05:00:00 +020016:23falsefull4664Joaquim Chissano on mediation and meditation in MozambiqueJoaquim Chissano on mediation and meditation in MozambiqueFormer President of Mozambique Joaquim Chissano charts his journey from freedom fighter to head of state. He discusses his role in securing Mozambique’s independence from colonial rule and reveals why he did not want to become president after his predecessor’s sudden death in 1986. As a peacemaker, he reflects on how he convinced the Mozambican people to reconcile with former RENAMO fighters after the country’s civil war. He also shares why he introduced transcendental meditation to the military and what it’s like to be friends with Nelson Mandela.

]]>Former President of Mozambique Joaquim Chissano charts his journey from freedom fighter to head of state. He discusses his role in securing Mozambique’s independence from colonial rule and reveals why he did not want to become president after his predecessor’s sudden death in 1986. As a peacemaker, he reflects on how he convinced the Mozambican people to reconcile with former RENAMO fighters after the country’s civil war. He also shares why he introduced transcendental meditation to the military and what it’s like to be friends with Nelson Mandela.

]]>164ed1d9-03b1-40d7-b456-4b3b89ece324Wed, 23 Nov 2022 05:00:00 +020038:15falsefull4554Khawla Mattar on a lifeline for Syria’s besieged townsKhawla Mattar on a lifeline for Syria's besieged townsFormer UN Deputy Special Envoy for Syria, Khawla Mattar, charts her path from covering the Lebanese civil war as a young journalist to her long career in the multilateral system. Starting out as the “joke of the UN” - an Arab Muslim woman not expected to succeed in negotiating with extremists - she quickly proved doubters wrong by crossing into ISIL and al-Nusra territory and successfully negotiating local ceasefires. Her first-hand account of wartime Syria not only reveals the horrors and desperation of war, but also her admiration for the resilience of young Syrians and her unwavering hope for a rebuilt country.

]]>Former UN Deputy Special Envoy for Syria, Khawla Mattar, charts her path from covering the Lebanese civil war as a young journalist to her long career in the multilateral system. Starting out as the “joke of the UN” - an Arab Muslim woman not expected to succeed in negotiating with extremists - she quickly proved doubters wrong by crossing into ISIL and al-Nusra territory and successfully negotiating local ceasefires. Her first-hand account of wartime Syria not only reveals the horrors and desperation of war, but also her admiration for the resilience of young Syrians and her unwavering hope for a rebuilt country.

]]>1e883a2e-aecf-4488-8e11-224a19adbe92Wed, 16 Nov 2022 05:00:00 +020029:43falsefull4444Martin Kimani on Kenya’s “African agenda” in the Security CouncilMartin Kimani on Kenya’s “African agenda” in the Security CouncilKenya’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the UN, Martin Kimani, reflects on his nation’s role as a “clear voice for Africa” on the Security Council, and stresses the importance of calling out hypocrisy and colonial nostalgia on the global stage. Taking us behind the scenes of the UN’s vote on Ukraine, he argues that Western countries should not have framed it as a matter of “East versus West”. He also discusses the challenges of nation building and explains why he would bet that African officials are some of the most advanced political engineers in the world.

]]>Kenya’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the UN, Martin Kimani, reflects on his nation’s role as a “clear voice for Africa” on the Security Council, and stresses the importance of calling out hypocrisy and colonial nostalgia on the global stage. Taking us behind the scenes of the UN’s vote on Ukraine, he argues that Western countries should not have framed it as a matter of “East versus West”. He also discusses the challenges of nation building and explains why he would bet that African officials are some of the most advanced political engineers in the world.

]]>f70ffb81-ceaa-477c-ae4d-391d3e49488eWed, 09 Nov 2022 05:00:00 +020028:32falsefull4334Fatima Gailani on Afghanistan’s missed opportunitiesFatima Gailani on Afghanistan’s missed opportunitiesPeace negotiator and former President of the Afghan Red Crescent Society, Fatima Gailani, shares behind-the-scenes moments from her long career in Afghan politics – from the 1980s, when she became a spokesperson for the Mujahideen, to 2021, when she came out of retirement to take part in negotiations with the Taliban. She recalls childhood memories of Afghanistan’s “Golden Era” and the subsequent shock of seeing a country scarred by civil war when she returned from exile many years later. Her first-hand account reveals what it is like to be a woman in the predominantly male realm of Afghan politics, and why she continues to hope for a truly inclusive peace.

]]>Peace negotiator and former President of the Afghan Red Crescent Society, Fatima Gailani, shares behind-the-scenes moments from her long career in Afghan politics – from the 1980s, when she became a spokesperson for the Mujahideen, to 2021, when she came out of retirement to take part in negotiations with the Taliban. She recalls childhood memories of Afghanistan’s “Golden Era” and the subsequent shock of seeing a country scarred by civil war when she returned from exile many years later. Her first-hand account reveals what it is like to be a woman in the predominantly male realm of Afghan politics, and why she continues to hope for a truly inclusive peace.

]]>9932e508-999c-4714-844c-259b2e0e7388Wed, 02 Nov 2022 05:00:00 +020036:26falsefull4224Rustem Umerov on negotiating for Ukraine in the midst of warRustem Umerov on negotiating for Ukraine in the midst of warSpecial Envoy of President Zelensky, Rustem Umerov, takes us back to the day of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, recalling nightly conversations with the presidential office and the first attempts at negotiation only days after the war had begun.

Serving as one of Ukraine’s negotiators, Umerov’s first-hand account of the past months offers unique insights into the dynamics of an ongoing armed conflict. He also shares his personal motivations for going into human rights work, and for choosing to negotiate at a time when war rages at home.

If you are interested in learning more about the Oslo Forum, you can find this year's report here.

]]>Special Envoy of President Zelensky, Rustem Umerov, takes us back to the day of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, recalling nightly conversations with the presidential office and the first attempts at negotiation only days after the war had begun.

Serving as one of Ukraine’s negotiators, Umerov’s first-hand account of the past months offers unique insights into the dynamics of an ongoing armed conflict. He also shares his personal motivations for going into human rights work, and for choosing to negotiate at a time when war rages at home.

If you are interested in learning more about the Oslo Forum, you can find this year's report here.

]]>788d7c81-211d-43a0-8b07-ba3fa4133832Wed, 26 Oct 2022 05:00:00 +020032:34falsefull4114Sneak Peek: The Mediator’s Studio – Season 4Sneak Peek: The Mediator's Studio - Season 4Welcome back to the fourth season of The Mediator's Studio, bringing you stories from behind the scenes! The new season, recorded at the Oslo Forum 2022, brings you conversations with a freedom fighter turned president, a journalist reporting from the frontlines of conflict as well as mediators and negotiators working in a range of contexts including the Horn of Africa, Syria and Mozambique. Here's a sneak peek of what you can listen to in the next few weeks.

]]>Welcome back to the fourth season of The Mediator's Studio, bringing you stories from behind the scenes! The new season, recorded at the Oslo Forum 2022, brings you conversations with a freedom fighter turned president, a journalist reporting from the frontlines of conflict as well as mediators and negotiators working in a range of contexts including the Horn of Africa, Syria and Mozambique. Here's a sneak peek of what you can listen to in the next few weeks.

]]>abc4d6e7-d2c2-429d-be92-06a6ca7221bfWed, 19 Oct 2022 13:00:00 +020001:31falsefull44Teresa Whitfield on optimism in the midst of adversityTeresa Whitfield on optimism in the midst of adversityDirector of the Policy and Mediation Division at the UN Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs, Teresa Whitfield, takes us through the highlights and challenges of her career in conflict mediation – starting with a chance encounter at the Havana Film Festival that led her to El Salvador in the middle of a civil war. She talks about her transition from journalism to peacemaking and the evolution of mediation support, including the deployment of digital technologies in Libya. And she explains why, despite geopolitical tensions making wars increasingly difficult to resolve, the values and principles of the UN remain a beacon of hope.

]]>Director of the Policy and Mediation Division at the UN Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs, Teresa Whitfield, takes us through the highlights and challenges of her career in conflict mediation – starting with a chance encounter at the Havana Film Festival that led her to El Salvador in the middle of a civil war. She talks about her transition from journalism to peacemaking and the evolution of mediation support, including the deployment of digital technologies in Libya. And she explains why, despite geopolitical tensions making wars increasingly difficult to resolve, the values and principles of the UN remain a beacon of hope.

]]>9f0218d3-1c3f-48e9-bfa9-8a3c2f51005fTue, 15 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +020033:31falsefull3553Mohamed Ibn Chambas on a mediator’s “baptisms of fire”Mohamed Ibn Chambas on a mediator’s “baptisms of fire”Former Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for West Africa and the Sahel, Mohamed Ibn Chambas, offers insights from decades mediating conflicts across Africa, from Liberia to Sudan. He takes us behind the scenes of some of the most tense moments of his career – including when he found out about protestors setting the Burkina Faso parliament ablaze while in the middle of delivering an important speech. He also recalls the harrowing experience of coming under mortar fire on a naval ship in Liberia, and how this brought home the brutal reality of war and the importance of seeking peace.

]]>Former Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for West Africa and the Sahel, Mohamed Ibn Chambas, offers insights from decades mediating conflicts across Africa, from Liberia to Sudan. He takes us behind the scenes of some of the most tense moments of his career – including when he found out about protestors setting the Burkina Faso parliament ablaze while in the middle of delivering an important speech. He also recalls the harrowing experience of coming under mortar fire on a naval ship in Liberia, and how this brought home the brutal reality of war and the importance of seeking peace.

]]>edb4a0d2-2143-4f11-8709-8ad844db64ccTue, 08 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +020035:25falsefull3443Muna Luqman on fighting for peace in YemenMuna Luqman on fighting for peace in YemenYemeni activist and international peace advocate, Muna Luqman, reflects on her efforts to reduce suffering in her country’s deadly war – from helping open humanitarian corridors across battlefields to negotiating safe passage for those at risk. Through stories from the frontlines, she illustrates the creativity and courage of local peacemakers, whether using social media to get army tanks removed from the streets or de-escalating tensions around access to water. She also recalls how women have put their lives at risk time and again, and how they have refused to be defeated in their fight for space at the negotiating table.

]]>Yemeni activist and international peace advocate, Muna Luqman, reflects on her efforts to reduce suffering in her country’s deadly war – from helping open humanitarian corridors across battlefields to negotiating safe passage for those at risk. Through stories from the frontlines, she illustrates the creativity and courage of local peacemakers, whether using social media to get army tanks removed from the streets or de-escalating tensions around access to water. She also recalls how women have put their lives at risk time and again, and how they have refused to be defeated in their fight for space at the negotiating table.

]]>2e8fab45-7aba-47ed-b5ec-4eed1907d290Tue, 01 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +020029:37falsefull3333Haile Menkerios on engaging with the powerfulHaile Menkerios on engaging with the powerfulFormer freedom fighter turned UN diplomat, Haile Menkerios, recounts his role in Eritrea’s war of independence and the devastation of being exiled from the country he had fought to create. Reflecting on how his approach as a mediator in Sudan, South Sudan and beyond was shaped by his own experience of war, he stresses the importance of talking to everyone and urges us to “never stop believing in a better future”.

]]>Former freedom fighter turned UN diplomat, Haile Menkerios, recounts his role in Eritrea’s war of independence and the devastation of being exiled from the country he had fought to create. Reflecting on how his approach as a mediator in Sudan, South Sudan and beyond was shaped by his own experience of war, he stresses the importance of talking to everyone and urges us to “never stop believing in a better future”.

]]>12411cca-1bf8-4fc2-be2b-c0e46646a84fTue, 22 Feb 2022 00:00:00 +020031:47falsefull3223Lakhdar Brahimi on hopes and failures in AfghanistanLakhdar Brahimi on hopes and failures in AfghanistanVeteran Algerian diplomat and distinguished conflict mediator, Lakhdar Brahimi, provides a front-row perspective on key moments in Afghanistan’s troubled history – beginning with his appointment as UN Special Envoy in 1997, after Kabul last fell to the Taliban. He reflects on personal regrets and missed opportunities over years of peace negotiations – from Bonn to Doha – and recalls his interactions with Taliban leadership, including the meeting where a young interpreter played an unexpected part in preventing a war. He also discusses his role in Iraq and why, despite his reservations, he couldn’t say no to the task of trying to find a peaceful solution to the war in Syria.

]]>Veteran Algerian diplomat and distinguished conflict mediator, Lakhdar Brahimi, provides a front-row perspective on key moments in Afghanistan’s troubled history – beginning with his appointment as UN Special Envoy in 1997, after Kabul last fell to the Taliban. He reflects on personal regrets and missed opportunities over years of peace negotiations – from Bonn to Doha – and recalls his interactions with Taliban leadership, including the meeting where a young interpreter played an unexpected part in preventing a war. He also discusses his role in Iraq and why, despite his reservations, he couldn’t say no to the task of trying to find a peaceful solution to the war in Syria.

]]>4affe695-2d9e-4b55-ab52-b251e0339c0fTue, 15 Feb 2022 00:00:00 +020029:12falsefull3113Sneak peek: The Mediator’s Studio – Season 3Sneak peek: The Mediator's Studio – Season 3Join us next week for a new season of The Mediator’s Studio podcast. Guests include a veteran mediator in Afghanistan and Syria, a former freedom fighter turned UN diplomat, a peacemaker with decades of experience across Africa, a Yemeni activist and frontline humanitarian, and more! New episodes from 15 February.

]]>Join us next week for a new season of The Mediator’s Studio podcast. Guests include a veteran mediator in Afghanistan and Syria, a former freedom fighter turned UN diplomat, a peacemaker with decades of experience across Africa, a Yemeni activist and frontline humanitarian, and more! New episodes from 15 February.

]]>83baa8c7-b9e5-4ab4-ab80-2cc92862b60bTue, 08 Feb 2022 00:00:00 +020000:49falsefull33Miriam Coronel-Ferrer on bridging the gap “between heaven and earth” to find peace in the southern PhilippinesMiriam Coronel-Ferrer on bridging the gap “between heaven and earth” to find peace in the southern PhilippinesFormer Lead Negotiator for the Government of the Philippines, Miriam Coronel-Ferrer, takes us inside the peace talks that ended half a century of insurgency in the southern Philippines. She reveals how she worked to unify the positions of the army, police and political establishment on her own side and went on to find common ground with representatives of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, an armed group that for decades had fought for more autonomy. She lays out the milestones towards peace, describing how the parties reached the point of no return “on Heartbreak Hill”, and explains why we must all be radical in the search for peace.

Find out more about the Oslo Forum Peacewriter Prize.

We love to hear your feedback - take our 1 minute listener survey.

]]>Former Lead Negotiator for the Government of the Philippines, Miriam Coronel-Ferrer, takes us inside the peace talks that ended half a century of insurgency in the southern Philippines. She reveals how she worked to unify the positions of the army, police and political establishment on her own side and went on to find common ground with representatives of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, an armed group that for decades had fought for more autonomy. She lays out the milestones towards peace, describing how the parties reached the point of no return “on Heartbreak Hill”, and explains why we must all be radical in the search for peace.

Find out more about the Oslo Forum Peacewriter Prize.

We love to hear your feedback - take our 1 minute listener survey.

]]>2b9342a4-20ac-47b0-a6e5-bf48f11f2169Thu, 11 Mar 2021 10:15:00 +020031:57falsefull2882Former Lead Negotiator for the Government of the Philippines, Miriam Coronel-Ferrer, takes us inside the peace talks that ended half a century of insurgency in the southern Philippines. She reveals how she worked to unify the positions of the army, police and political establishment on her own side and went on to find common ground with representatives of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, an armed group that for decades had fought for more autonomy. She lays out the milestones towards peace, describing how the parties reached the point of no return “on Heartbreak Hill”, and explains why we must all be radical in the search for peace. Find out more about the Oslo Forum Peacewriter Prize: www.hdcentre.org/osloforum/peacewriter-prize We love to hear your feedback - take our 1 minute listener survey: https://0lotay3liy7.typeform.com/to/BszSNdLfJeffrey Feltman on the risk of accidental warJeffrey Feltman on the risk of accidental warFormer UN Under-Secretary-General for Political Affairs, Jeffrey Feltman, reveals behind-the-scenes moments from his missions to Iran and North Korea. He also reflects on a career in the US Foreign Service, which threw him into the limelight of Lebanese politics at the time of Syria’s turbulent exit from the country, and recounts the dramatic episode when a talkative contact may have saved him from the huge car bomb that killed Prime Minister Rafik Hariri.

We love to hear your feedback – take our 1 minute listener survey.

]]>Former UN Under-Secretary-General for Political Affairs, Jeffrey Feltman, reveals behind-the-scenes moments from his missions to Iran and North Korea. He also reflects on a career in the US Foreign Service, which threw him into the limelight of Lebanese politics at the time of Syria’s turbulent exit from the country, and recounts the dramatic episode when a talkative contact may have saved him from the huge car bomb that killed Prime Minister Rafik Hariri.

We love to hear your feedback – take our 1 minute listener survey.

]]>bedb49d1-9b11-453d-9b12-c965e2f2511cThu, 04 Mar 2021 11:00:00 +020032:53falsefull2772Former UN Under-Secretary-General for Political Affairs, Jeffrey Feltman, reveals behind-the-scenes moments from his missions to Iran and North Korea. He also reflects on a career in the US Foreign Service, which threw him into the limelight of Lebanese politics at the time of Syria’s turbulent exit from the country, and recounts the dramatic episode when a talkative contact may have saved him from the huge car bomb that killed Prime Minister Rafik Hariri. We love to hear your feedback – take our 1 minute listener survey: https://bit.ly/3uSaLrHVictoria Sandino and Sergio Jaramillo Caro: former enemies talk peaceVictoria Sandino and Sergio Jaramillo Caro: former enemies talk peaceFormer FARC commander, Victoria Sandino, now a Senator in Colombia, and the country’s former High Commissioner for Peace, Sergio Jaramillo Caro, were once enemies, facing each other over the negotiating table. Now they come together in The Mediator’s Studio to give the inside story on how secret talks led the two sides to a lakeside retreat in Cuba, where they forged a peace agreement to end one of Latin America’s longest conflicts. They reveal how they worked together when the Colombian people narrowly rejected the deal in a referendum and talk frankly about protecting an increasingly fragile peace today. 

]]>Former FARC commander, Victoria Sandino, now a Senator in Colombia, and the country’s former High Commissioner for Peace, Sergio Jaramillo Caro, were once enemies, facing each other over the negotiating table. Now they come together in The Mediator’s Studio to give the inside story on how secret talks led the two sides to a lakeside retreat in Cuba, where they forged a peace agreement to end one of Latin America’s longest conflicts. They reveal how they worked together when the Colombian people narrowly rejected the deal in a referendum and talk frankly about protecting an increasingly fragile peace today. 

]]>71b411c9-582f-478e-987e-39c92271915aThu, 25 Feb 2021 10:30:00 +020039:20falsefull2662Stephanie Williams on inviting the public to Libya’s ‘National Barbecue Session’Stephanie Williams on inviting the public to Libya’s 'National Barbecue Session'Former Acting Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for Libya, Stephanie Williams, reveals how Zoom calls and digital dialogues helped put the country on the path to elections after a decade of conflict and instability. She recalls her shock when a phone call from President Trump undermined the UN-led peace process, and explains how the latest, livestreamed round of the Libyan Political Dialogue Forum turned up the heat on Libya’s political class.

We love to hear your feedback – take our 1 minute listener survey.

]]>Former Acting Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for Libya, Stephanie Williams, reveals how Zoom calls and digital dialogues helped put the country on the path to elections after a decade of conflict and instability. She recalls her shock when a phone call from President Trump undermined the UN-led peace process, and explains how the latest, livestreamed round of the Libyan Political Dialogue Forum turned up the heat on Libya’s political class.

We love to hear your feedback – take our 1 minute listener survey.

]]>24b851f5-b836-4680-9240-0d794c26b67cThu, 18 Feb 2021 10:30:00 +020032:48falsefull2552Former Acting Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for Libya, Stephanie Williams, reveals how Zoom calls and digital dialogues helped put the country on the path to elections after a decade of conflict and instability. She recalls her shock when a phone call from President Trump undermined the UN-led peace process, and explains how the latest, livestreamed round of the Libyan Political Dialogue Forum turned up the heat on Libya’s political class. We love to hear your feedback – take our 1 minute listener survey: https://bit.ly/3atoQDR.Ibrahim Saleh Hassan on forgiveness and community dialogue in NigeriaIbrahim Saleh Hassan on forgiveness and community dialogue in NigeriaBusinessman turned local mediator, Ibrahim Saleh Hassan, recalls being caught up in intercommunal violence in his home city of Jos and explains why, in the aftermath of this traumatic experience, he chose to be part of the solution rather than seek revenge. He tells Adam how he applied the lessons of this first dialogue process to other mediation efforts across Nigeria’s Middle Belt and why he has found that a peacemaker’s work is never done.

]]>Businessman turned local mediator, Ibrahim Saleh Hassan, recalls being caught up in intercommunal violence in his home city of Jos and explains why, in the aftermath of this traumatic experience, he chose to be part of the solution rather than seek revenge. He tells Adam how he applied the lessons of this first dialogue process to other mediation efforts across Nigeria’s Middle Belt and why he has found that a peacemaker’s work is never done.

]]>10d3e229-64b3-45c2-9c3e-8dce7f801423Thu, 11 Feb 2021 10:15:00 +020032:00falsefull2442Catherine Ashton on safe spaces for difficult conversationsCatherine Ashton on safe spaces for difficult conversationsFormer EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Catherine Ashton, reveals the inner workings of negotiations to secure a deal on Iran’s nuclear programme and looks ahead to prospects for the agreement under a Biden administration. She recalls how she put former enemies at ease in talks between Serbia and Kosovo, argues that Europe has learned the lessons of bitter division and war and explains why, despite the fact that progress is often slow, she remains optimistic about mediation and negotiation.

]]>Former EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Catherine Ashton, reveals the inner workings of negotiations to secure a deal on Iran’s nuclear programme and looks ahead to prospects for the agreement under a Biden administration. She recalls how she put former enemies at ease in talks between Serbia and Kosovo, argues that Europe has learned the lessons of bitter division and war and explains why, despite the fact that progress is often slow, she remains optimistic about mediation and negotiation.

]]>48345b9f-47b5-4e81-9458-83c2161b924fThu, 17 Dec 2020 06:00:00 +020042:48falsefull2332Mohamed El Hacen Lebatt on tears and elation in Sudan’s political transitionMohamed El Hacen Lebatt on tears and elation in Sudan’s political transitionSpecial Envoy of the African Union to Sudan, Mohamed El Hacen Lebatt, recounts his mediation role in the political transition in Sudan; his arrival in Khartoum in an atmosphere of fear just ten days after the 2019 coup, his late-night talks with the military authorities and his discussions with opposition groups, particularly after a massacre that killed over one hundred civilians. He recalls shedding tears in the search for peace, and how those tears turned to elation once a deal was done.

]]>Special Envoy of the African Union to Sudan, Mohamed El Hacen Lebatt, recounts his mediation role in the political transition in Sudan; his arrival in Khartoum in an atmosphere of fear just ten days after the 2019 coup, his late-night talks with the military authorities and his discussions with opposition groups, particularly after a massacre that killed over one hundred civilians. He recalls shedding tears in the search for peace, and how those tears turned to elation once a deal was done.

]]>9210f17c-67b1-47aa-8cec-e53a0beb43f9Thu, 10 Dec 2020 08:53:00 +020033:38falsefull2222Martin Griffiths on breaking new ground in mediationMartin Griffiths on breaking new ground in mediationSpecial Envoy of the UN Secretary-General for Yemen, Martin Griffiths, takes us back to the origins of private diplomacy and his early efforts to bring peace to the Indonesian province of Aceh and the Basque region. He talks about the ‘tradecraft’ of starting secret talks and the art of establishing trust with conflict parties. His wealth of experience has taught him invaluable lessons, and he explains how he applies them now, in Yemen – one of the most complex conflicts of our time.

]]>Special Envoy of the UN Secretary-General for Yemen, Martin Griffiths, takes us back to the origins of private diplomacy and his early efforts to bring peace to the Indonesian province of Aceh and the Basque region. He talks about the ‘tradecraft’ of starting secret talks and the art of establishing trust with conflict parties. His wealth of experience has taught him invaluable lessons, and he explains how he applies them now, in Yemen – one of the most complex conflicts of our time.

]]>bdbf06cf-5297-4102-81de-102422638e39Thu, 03 Dec 2020 11:28:00 +020043:40falsefull2112Hanna Tetteh on revitalising peace in South SudanHanna Tetteh on revitalising peace in South SudanSpecial Representative of the UN Secretary-General to the African Union, Hanna Tetteh, charts her journey from the legal profession where she defended disadvantaged women to Ghanaian politics, where, as Foreign Minister, she introduced affirmative action into the diplomatic service. She offers robust lessons for would be mediators, describing how she told a negotiator not to lecture her on suffering and making the case for women to take a central role in the search for peace in South Sudan. 

]]>Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General to the African Union, Hanna Tetteh, charts her journey from the legal profession where she defended disadvantaged women to Ghanaian politics, where, as Foreign Minister, she introduced affirmative action into the diplomatic service. She offers robust lessons for would be mediators, describing how she told a negotiator not to lecture her on suffering and making the case for women to take a central role in the search for peace in South Sudan. 

]]>77808f91-abf3-447b-8871-7e20d4ab4178Tue, 11 Aug 2020 00:15:00 +020024:00falsefull1881Meredith Preston McGhie on how to become a mediatorMeredith Preston McGhie on how to become a mediatorSecretary General of the Global Centre for Pluralism, Meredith Preston McGhie, reveals the backroom story of working closely with Kofi Annan to resolve Kenya’s violent political crisis in 2008, typing out the peace deal as each word was negotiated, with senior ministers circling her to glimpse the draft on her laptop. She lays bare the mediator’s craft while describing her work to resolve conflicts in Asia and Africa, admitting that while heavily pregnant she once threatened to go into labour when negotiations began to stall. 

]]>Secretary General of the Global Centre for Pluralism, Meredith Preston McGhie, reveals the backroom story of working closely with Kofi Annan to resolve Kenya’s violent political crisis in 2008, typing out the peace deal as each word was negotiated, with senior ministers circling her to glimpse the draft on her laptop. She lays bare the mediator’s craft while describing her work to resolve conflicts in Asia and Africa, admitting that while heavily pregnant she once threatened to go into labour when negotiations began to stall. 

]]>c8e8bcfe-09bb-403d-b372-ffd6c5d0406eTue, 04 Aug 2020 00:15:00 +020025:10falsefull1771Said Djinnit on Africa’s forgotten conflictsSaid Djinnit on Africa’s forgotten conflictsSpecial Adviser to the African Centre for the Constructive Resolution of Disputes, Ambassador Said Djinnit, recalls the nightmares of a childhood under colonial rule in his native Algeria. With a chilling story of the moment a French soldier threatened to kill his father, he illustrates how those injustices propelled him into a lifetime of mediation. Among the many tales of the untold, he recounts being mistaken for a French agent during his mission to restore democracy in Comoros following a dramatic coup, as well as persuading a military general in Guinea to step down shortly after seizing power.

]]>Special Adviser to the African Centre for the Constructive Resolution of Disputes, Ambassador Said Djinnit, recalls the nightmares of a childhood under colonial rule in his native Algeria. With a chilling story of the moment a French soldier threatened to kill his father, he illustrates how those injustices propelled him into a lifetime of mediation. Among the many tales of the untold, he recounts being mistaken for a French agent during his mission to restore democracy in Comoros following a dramatic coup, as well as persuading a military general in Guinea to step down shortly after seizing power.

]]>4880e0fb-0573-4c3f-8e89-2b7970e9d0a8Tue, 28 Jul 2020 00:15:00 +020024:54falsefull1661Betty Bigombe on making peace with the Lord’s Resistance ArmyBetty Bigombe on making peace with the Lord’s Resistance ArmySpecial Envoy of Uganda to South Sudan, Betty Bigombe, retraces her steps to northern Uganda as government negotiator, engaging one of the most brutal armed groups the world has known in her efforts to end the civil war. Despite significant threats to her safety, including ambushes, landmines and accusations of treason, she persists in her attempt to forge peace. Drawing on decades in peacemaking, she outlines the principles that guided her recent engagement in South Sudan and is forthright in her views on the tension between justice and peace. Listeners are warned that this episode contains graphic descriptions of violence.

]]>Special Envoy of Uganda to South Sudan, Betty Bigombe, retraces her steps to northern Uganda as government negotiator, engaging one of the most brutal armed groups the world has known in her efforts to end the civil war. Despite significant threats to her safety, including ambushes, landmines and accusations of treason, she persists in her attempt to forge peace. Drawing on decades in peacemaking, she outlines the principles that guided her recent engagement in South Sudan and is forthright in her views on the tension between justice and peace. Listeners are warned that this episode contains graphic descriptions of violence.

]]>6bb41b7a-5b62-4f67-9e4b-2784099de4deTue, 21 Jul 2020 00:15:00 +020023:30falsefull1551Dag Nylander on salmon diplomacyDag Nylander on salmon diplomacyNorwegian peace facilitator, Dag Nylander, recounts how he smuggled salmon into Havana where negotiations brought to an end one of South America’s longest running civil wars. He describes how, during an early morning helicopter mission, a chance encounter with a young guerrilla influenced the peace agenda in Colombia. And he outlines the essence of Norwegian-style diplomacy, laying out how the dynamics of peace processes change over time, making the impossible achievable. 

]]>Norwegian peace facilitator, Dag Nylander, recounts how he smuggled salmon into Havana where negotiations brought to an end one of South America’s longest running civil wars. He describes how, during an early morning helicopter mission, a chance encounter with a young guerrilla influenced the peace agenda in Colombia. And he outlines the essence of Norwegian-style diplomacy, laying out how the dynamics of peace processes change over time, making the impossible achievable. 

]]>1b49cbe8-e085-4439-9802-f63f37a47a42Tue, 14 Jul 2020 11:35:00 +020026:11falsefull1441Sanam Naraghi Anderlini on Gucci gangsters and Yemeni mumsSanam Naraghi Anderlini on Gucci gangsters and Yemeni mumsThe founder and CEO of the International Civil Society Action Network, Sanam Naraghi Anderlini MBE, calls for a complete rethink of international approaches to conflict resolution to better reflect the increasing fragmentation of warfare. Sharing first-hand accounts of her encounters with Gucci gangsters in Jamaica and South Africa's Knitting Needles Guerrilla, and recounting a dash after a foreign minister through the corridors of the UN, she demonstrates the importance of diversifying voices at the negotiating table and how the pivotal UNSC Resolution 1325 established a new discourse for the inclusion of women in peacemaking. 

]]>The founder and CEO of the International Civil Society Action Network, Sanam Naraghi Anderlini MBE, calls for a complete rethink of international approaches to conflict resolution to better reflect the increasing fragmentation of warfare. Sharing first-hand accounts of her encounters with Gucci gangsters in Jamaica and South Africa's Knitting Needles Guerrilla, and recounting a dash after a foreign minister through the corridors of the UN, she demonstrates the importance of diversifying voices at the negotiating table and how the pivotal UNSC Resolution 1325 established a new discourse for the inclusion of women in peacemaking. 

]]>a6f6bc6f-024a-4f10-8d10-2e36aa60b05cTue, 07 Jul 2020 00:03:00 +020029:56falsefull1331Ghassan Salamé on the failures of the international community to stop warsGhassan Salamé on the failures of the international community to stop warsFormer United Nations Special Representative for Libya, Ghassan Salamé, reveals why he’s “very angry” and concerned about the “state of multi-lateralism and international cooperation" today. Drawing on his personal experience dealing with a highly internationalized conflict, Salamé opens up about his frustrations with members of the UN Security Council for “stabbing him in the back” and concern for their “hypocrisy” in undermining his mediation efforts in Libya. He recounts the harrowing aftermath of the terror attack on the UN mission in Baghdad in 2003, and he laments the slowness of his native Lebanon to deal with its divided past. 

]]>Former United Nations Special Representative for Libya, Ghassan Salamé, reveals why he’s “very angry” and concerned about the “state of multi-lateralism and international cooperation" today. Drawing on his personal experience dealing with a highly internationalized conflict, Salamé opens up about his frustrations with members of the UN Security Council for “stabbing him in the back” and concern for their “hypocrisy” in undermining his mediation efforts in Libya. He recounts the harrowing aftermath of the terror attack on the UN mission in Baghdad in 2003, and he laments the slowness of his native Lebanon to deal with its divided past. 

]]>5165b6ba-897a-418a-9953-82107663b013Tue, 30 Jun 2020 06:00:00 +020025:52falsefull1221Lyse Doucet on the great mediators of our timeLyse Doucet on the great mediators of our timeThe BBC’s chief international correspondent, Lyse Doucet, reflects on the most pivotal moments of mediation in recent history – from Syria, to Afghanistan and Yemen. Through recollections of her personal encounters with renowned mediators like Kofi Annan, Martti Ahtisaari, Catherine Ashton and Lakhdar Brahimi, among others, Lyse offers a unique view of mediation, sharing insights from her work behind-the-scenes.

Episode transcript

]]>The BBC’s chief international correspondent, Lyse Doucet, reflects on the most pivotal moments of mediation in recent history – from Syria, to Afghanistan and Yemen. Through recollections of her personal encounters with renowned mediators like Kofi Annan, Martti Ahtisaari, Catherine Ashton and Lakhdar Brahimi, among others, Lyse offers a unique view of mediation, sharing insights from her work behind-the-scenes.

Episode transcript

]]>a4621b30-896c-4a4e-b7a5-0593a77348a0Mon, 22 Jun 2020 18:30:00 +020034:27falsefull1111Introducing: The Mediator’s StudioIntroducing: The Mediator’s StudioWhat happens behind closed doors when peace agreements are negotiated? The Mediator’s Studio gives you a glimpse into the normally hidden world of peace diplomacy: first-hand stories from mediators, armed groups and governments on what it takes to end wars. Join our host Adam Cooper, in a conversation with Norwegian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ine Eriksen Søreide, to get a sneak peek of the show. The Mediator’s Studio is a podcast from the Oslo Forum, the world’s leading mediation retreat. It’s brought to you by the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue.

]]>What happens behind closed doors when peace agreements are negotiated? The Mediator’s Studio gives you a glimpse into the normally hidden world of peace diplomacy: first-hand stories from mediators, armed groups and governments on what it takes to end wars. Join our host Adam Cooper, in a conversation with Norwegian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ine Eriksen Søreide, to get a sneak peek of the show. The Mediator’s Studio is a podcast from the Oslo Forum, the world’s leading mediation retreat. It’s brought to you by the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue.

]]>f7b61d16-c411-4cf7-8121-801932ef375aWed, 17 Jun 2020 14:45:00 +020006:46falsefull11