Dignity is a big part of the conflict resolution process

In addition to specific techniques that can be applied to conflicts, conflict resolution as a discipline also offers several overarching philosophies and concepts that need to be applied to conflicts to allow the techniques to be effective.

One such concept that has only recently received the focus that it deserves is that of dignity and the role it plays in conflict, especially complex, cyclical conflicts manifesting in generational and racial disputes.

This week we will study dignity and how that can play a role in helping us understand and effectively participate in conflict.

In South African history, we often see well-intentioned conflict-resolution projects of a public and private nature leading nowhere because of a lack of understanding or application of this crucial component.

Simply put, all complex conflict-resolution techniques will lead nowhere unless they are built on a solid foundation of dignity.

How do we define this term “dignity” in a practical way and where it becomes an actual tool that we can take with us into the streets?

As a practical term it simply requires us to recognise and accept the inherent value of every human being, regardless of their status, race, religion, gender, how much they agree with us, what they have done or any other such example of divisive thinking.

Recognise that value and then start living and demonstrating the care, for yourself and others, that anything of such value deserves.

Dignity is a concept bigger and more important than respect.

Treating others with dignity, regardless of their actions, must then become our baseline approach, the starting point from which we relate to people in conflict.

Research shows that we are programmed to sense and respond to a threat to our dignity as much as we are to a physical threat.

Despite this, in the workplace and in private settings, we continue to see disciplinary processes and conflict responses that confuse the respect and dignity due to individuals and groups, and how the lack of this dignity simply serves to prolong and perpetuate these conflicts, without any realistic chance of it ever resolving.

In SA this more often than not leads to additional complications.

Next week we start applying this understanding to actual conflict situations.