How can you navigate conflicts and disagreements in social movements?

1 Understand the sources of conflict

Conflicts and disagreements in social movements can arise from different sources, such as values, goals, strategies, tactics, roles, resources, power, identity, communication, or emotions. Some of these sources are more visible and tangible than others, but they can all affect the relationships and outcomes of the movement. To navigate conflicts and disagreements effectively, you need to understand the underlying causes and interests of the parties involved, and avoid making assumptions or judgments based on stereotypes or biases.

2 Communicate effectively and respectfully

Communication is key to resolving conflicts and disagreements in social movements, but it can also be challenging and stressful. To communicate effectively and respectfully, you need to listen actively and empathically, acknowledge and validate the feelings and perspectives of others, express your own needs and concerns clearly and nonviolently, ask open-ended and clarifying questions, and avoid blaming, shaming, or attacking others. You also need to be aware of your own triggers and emotions, and manage them appropriately.

4 Use constructive and creative problem-solving

Conflicts and disagreements in social movements can pose challenges and obstacles, but they can also generate constructive and creative solutions. To use constructive and creative problem-solving, you need to define the problem and the desired outcome, brainstorm and evaluate possible options, negotiate and compromise when necessary, and implement and monitor the agreed solution. You also need to be collaborative and inclusive, and involve the relevant stakeholders and allies in the process.

5 Seek support and mediation when needed

Conflicts and disagreements in social movements can be overwhelming and exhausting, but they can also be addressed with support and mediation. To seek support and mediation when needed, you need to recognize when the conflict is beyond your capacity or expertise, and reach out to trusted and experienced individuals or groups who can offer guidance, advice, or facilitation. You also need to be respectful and cooperative with the mediators, and follow the agreed rules and procedures.

6 Learn and grow from the experience

Conflicts and disagreements in social movements can be painful and frustrating, but they can also be valuable and transformative. To learn and grow from the experience, you need to reflect on the lessons and insights gained, apply them to your future actions and interactions, and share them with others. You also need to celebrate the achievements and progress made, acknowledge the efforts and contributions of others, and restore and strengthen the relationships and trust within the movement.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?