BRIDGING CONFLICT THROUGH DIALOGUE: THE ROLE OF MEDIATION AND NONVIOLENT COMMUNICATION IN DISPUTE RESOLUTION—LESSONS FROM THE UKRAINE-RUSSIA CRISIS

This paper explores the intersection of mediation and Nonviolent Communication (NVC) as tools for conflict resolution, with specific reference to the Russia–Ukraine crisis. Mediation, as a structured and voluntary process, emphasizes communication and relationship repair, while NVC, developed by Marshall Rosenberg, fosters empathy, clarity, and recognition of underlying human needs. The article examines how integrating NVC principles into mediation enhances the quality of dialogue, enabling parties to shift from adversarial positions toward mutual understanding. It highlights both the advantages,such as improved empathy, constructive expression of emotions, and interest-based negotiation and the limitations, including cultural differences, power asymmetries, and the challenges of high-stakes international conflicts. The paper also draws parallels between NVC and the Jain principle of Ahimsa (non-violence), underscoring their combined potential in fostering reconciliation. Using lessons from the Ukraine–Russia conflict, the study demonstrates that while NVC and mediation cannot alone resolve entrenched geopolitical disputes, their integration offers valuable insights for building trust, addressing relational dimensions of conflict, and contributing to sustainable peace when embedded in broader diplomatic and political frameworks.