Certification course on conciliation/mediation of labour disputes

An effective dispute managing system promoting consensus-based initiatives reduces both the cost and the time associated with traditional methods of dispute resolution whether it be through tribunals, arbitration or the use of strikes and lockouts. A sound conciliation / mediation system therefore enhances social peace while lightening the burden of work for labour tribunals. With the intention of strengthening the position of conciliators / mediators within the bargaining process while fostering the application of core ILO principles and standards, the ILO and the ITCILO have designed a course which aimed to develop and improve, as well as assess the competencies of conciliators / mediators.

OBJECTIVES

The objectives of this course were to assess and certify the competencies of those involved in conciliation/mediation of labour disputes and therefore contribute to an increased recognition of their role and functions.

CONTENT

Participants could gain further knowledge of:

• Introduction to Labour Dispute Prevention and Resolution

• Introduction to Conciliation/Mediation of Labour Disputes

• The Conciliation /Mediation Process:

• Opening the conciliation process

• Principles of conciliation

• Exploration

• Structure of side meetings

• Bargaining

• Selecting options and choosing

• Summary of the different phases of conciliation

• Preventing labour disputes

In addition, participants were involved in four role-plays exercises, two coached and two assessed, in which they had the opportunity to play the role of the conciliator/ mediator at all stages of the process.

RESULTS

Participants gained further knowledge about conflict dynamics, the different approaches to conflict management. They obtained knowledge about the skills needed to manage people, problems and the processes involved, with a special focus on the process of Conciliation/Mediation.

NUMBER OF HOURS: 30