Norwegian Mediation in Conflict Transformation for a Sustainable Peace in Sri Lanka; Challenges Ahead

Abstract

The peace process of Sri Lanka has stepped a considerable way from 2002 to date, though it was stalled on the way as a result of the political crisis at the national politics of the country. Within this process Norway as a facilitator has performed a very significant role in keeping belligerents away from the hostile activities while mediating them to find a political solution.

The aim of this paper is, however, to analyze challenges in a more comprehensive manner. For the convenience, the paper has divided into some sub-headings. In the next section of the paper, (after a theoretical perspective on third party mediation) a brief overview of the peace process from 2001 to date will be taken up. The purpose of this overview is to illustrate the role played by Norway within this period of time with the view to mediate the peace process for a political solution. Subsequent section of the paper has devoted to analyze the challenges that have to be faced by Norway in preceding its role within Sri Lankan context. Here I used some empirical data collected through a field survey conducted in Hambantota district of Sri Lanka.

Keywords: Third Party Mediation, Conflict Resolution, Civil Society, Sri Lanka, Norway