facilitation exercises

A significant component of John Paul's peacebuilding practice has been in participatory education and capacity building with local communities. Through an elicitive approach, he has sought to respect and amplify the knowledge and skill present in a given setting or context. Another significant element of his practice is the accompaniment of reflective vocational practitioners, co-creating spaces in educational settings and conversational retreats where opportunities are provided to slow down, notice, and cultivate compassionate presence. The content featured in this section ranges from technical frameworks for analysis to exercises guiding deep listening of self and other. Some of these activities are primarily suited for a group context and may be helpful for teachers and/or facilitators in community or organizational settings.

Autobiographical Haiku

A group poetry practice inviting participants to describe themselves at essence, perceiving unique qualities and strengths in new ways.

The Bangari Crisis: A Conciliation Scenario

A conciliation scenario in which a United Nations special policy team is tasked with developing a strategy in a country experiencing the echoes of civil war and an impending famine that links the humanitarian disaster with the peace process.

Closing Ritual

A closing ritual suited for the completion of a retreat or course for peacebuilding practitioners.

Designing Good Meetings

Suggestions to improve meetings through clarifying purpose, roles, and process.