conflictsolution

Conflictsolution, often written as conflictsolution or interpreted as a term for conflict resolution, refers to the processes, theories, and practices aimed at ending or transforming disputes between two or more parties in ways that reduce harm and restore stable, cooperative relationships. While not a universally standardized term, conflictsolution is commonly used as an umbrella for dispute-resolution activities that emphasize peaceful settlement, reconciliation, or durable agreements, rather than coercive or violent outcomes.

Core methods include negotiation, mediation, facilitation, arbitration, and restorative justice. Practitioners apply interest-based or principled negotiation, dialogue, and collaborative problem solving to identify underlying needs, generate options, evaluate trade-offs, and reach sustainable agreements. The process typically involves defining the problem, understanding positions and interests, generating options, selecting a workable solution, and implementing and monitoring it.

Conflictsolution is applied across many settings, including international diplomacy, criminal and civil law, workplace labor relations, community mediation, education, and family or domestic disputes. It draws on disciplines such as law, psychology, sociology, political science, and organizational development.

Key theoretical strands include interest-based or integrative bargaining, transformative mediation, restorative justice, and collaborative governance. Critics point to challenges like power imbalances, cultural differences, and the risk of superficial settlements that fail to address root causes or enforceability.

See also: conflict resolution, dispute resolution, mediation, arbitration, restorative justice.