The Oslo Forum 2019, held on 18-19 June, co-hosted by the Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue (HD) and the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, focused on the critical theme of "Rebooting mediation: connecting tracks, processes, and people."

The Oslo Forum, renowned as a leading international network of conflict mediation practitioners, conducted its seventeenth edition this year, bringing together approximately 120 of the world’s top peacemakers, decision-makers, conflict actors, and academics from 48 different nationalities.  Our expert, Omar Abdulaziz Hallaj, was among the participants invited to join this year’s event.  

The forum’s sessions, adhering to the Chatham House Rule of non-attribution, provided a confidential and informal setting for provocative and informed exchanges. This environment facilitated frank and open dialogues, crucial for addressing the complexities of contemporary conflict mediation.

This year's overarching theme addressed the challenges in the evolving landscape of mediation, where comprehensive agreements are increasingly rare. Participants engaged in in-depth discussions on how mediators can effectively connect various peacemaking tracks and ensure coherence among them amidst the fragmentation of conflict parties. The forum also highlighted the significance of bottom-up initiatives in complementing elite negotiations and accommodating multiple armed groups.

The retreat covered a range of critical issues, such as the role of mediators in reducing cyberspace tensions, addressing the impact of climate change on conflicts, and preventing political crises from escalating. Key regions like Afghanistan, the Korean Peninsula, Syria, Venezuela, Yemen, and others affected by violent conflicts were also discussed.

A significant emphasis was placed on the inclusion of women and young people's voices in high-level mediation processes. As the nature of conflicts becomes increasingly complex and intertwined with geopolitical interests, the forum recognized the need for global cooperation and inclusive processes for sustainable peace.

The Oslo Forum 2019 concluded with a reinforced commitment to innovative and practical solutions in peacemaking, underscoring the essential role of mediators in today's challenging global landscape.

To learn more about this event, please review the Meeting Report at HD’s website >

To view images of the event, please visit the photo gallery on Flickr >