Episode 6: A Complex Historical Approach

In this podcast Agnes Dinkelman discusses her unique 'complex historical approach' to transformative dialogue. She draws on examples of her work with Peshmerga in Northern Iraq and using dialogue initiatives to prevent election violence in Zimbabwe.

For greater insight into Agnes’ work see, https://stillare.com/agnes-dinkelman-oprichter-stillare/

Guidelines for implementation for the complex historical approach.

Collect (possibly with the help of the participants) all possible sources about the history of the conflict (writings, traditions, stories of heroes, photos, film, memories, journalistic work etc.) and place them visibly in the middle of the space where you are working. Then work through the 10 questions of implementation as follows:

1.     What do we consider the beginning of our situation? (this may lie far back in history). (Travel from the earliest source to the present moment, Make sure that all narratives are well represented on this journey through history, As the journey gets closer to the present time, the participants will be able to share their stories, perceptions and perspectives, Make sure that everyone has a say, Make sure that every perspective is heard and understood by the participants)

2. What happened?

3. How was it handled / How did you handle it?

4. Is that an understandable reaction?

5. Why yes/no?

6. Is it a desirable reaction?

7. Why yes/no?

8. What were the consequences?

9. What were the reactions of other parties involved?

Repeat questions 2 to 9 as often as necessary. By doing this it takes the group from a jointly constructed past to a jointly constructed present. Consensus about the present, with all differences in view, enables a joint search, in which all voices may be heard.

10. What do we have to do now? (This is the point where participants can explore, create or propose scenarios, whilst also reflecting on the discussions of past)