Razifdiwaparis
Razifdiwaparis is a term that originates from the folk traditions of the semi‑arid regions of the western Sahel, where it has been used to describe a specific type of communal decision‑making process. The word is believed to derive from the Tuareg phrase “razif diw,” meaning “shared wisdom,” combined with the Arabic suffix “‑paris,” which historically referred to a gathering or council. As a cultural practice, razifdiwaparis involves a small assembly of elders, traders, and knowledgeable artisans who convene to resolve disputes, allocate resources, or plan communal activities. The process is characterized by a series of open discussions, the presentation of evidence by those affected, and the iterative proposal of solutions until consensus is reached.
In contemporary scholarship, razifdiwaparis has been studied as an example of indigenous conflict resolution mechanisms that
The practice remains active in several communities, albeit with modern adaptations such as the inclusion of