Peter Sampson joined the YALI Network team to answer questions about ways in which individuals can advocate for human rights and manage conflict resolution through mediation. Peter is currently with the United Nations’ Department of Political Affairs and has served as a head of mediation support and mediation adviser to the special representative to the secretary-general (SRSG) at the U.N. Office in West Africa (UNOWA). Visit our Facebook page to find more information on mediation and human rights advocacy.
Human Rights
Advocating for human rights, women’s rights and resolution tactics can begin with a few simple steps. Contacting local organizations and volunteering are ways to learn more about the issues in your area and how to advocate for peace and justice within those human rights issues.
Human rights encompass many diverse issues and affect communities in many different ways. Sampson discussed how media can be a powerful tool for people to speak out against unfair treatment.
Advocating for human rights is of utmost importance throughout all of Africa and around the globe. Campaigning, volunteering, joining local organizations, and working with the media and relevant government bodies and representatives are all ways in which human rights advocates will achieve the most success.
Mediation
Mediation offers a neutral alternative to fight for human rights cases along with other issue areas.
Mediation also grants a more peaceful and just interaction.
Alternatives to mediation include negotiation or arbitration. If these efforts are not successful, the differing parties may initiate judicial proceedings.
For more information on successful ways to advocate for human rights, read “Lessons learned from a successful human rights campaign” on our blog!