Obama, the Mediator, In the Mid-East

President Obama's remarks in Cairo reflect his consensus-building orientation to resolving deeply divisive world problems. Mediators are trained to reframe conflicting opinions and reorient disputants toward the future and away from the contentious past. Mr. Obama stated: "So whatever we think of the past, we must not be prisoners of it. Our problems must be dealt with through partnership; progress must be shared." The Obama administration also understands the importance of preparing the parties for negotiations in advance of the negotiating table: before finalizing his Cairo remarks he tested the waters with pro-Israeli advocates in the United States and with other constituent groups whose support will be needed to bridge differences; following his remarks and visit abroad, he will dispatch Special Envoy George Mitchell to the Middle East, who is already highly-regarded for his skills as an honest broker. All those interested in alternative dispute resolution should examine President Obama's words, demeanor and conduct for mediation role-modeling.

Resolve disputes by letting people tell their side of the story

Mediation can help resolve disputes and settle cases through the simple device of allowing the parties to tell their side of the story. People have a compelling need to tell their story to someone who is an empathic listener. Lawsuits are not a great vehicle for accomplishing the telling of a personal narrative: once a lawsuit is threatened or pending, the ability of the aggrieved parties to speak from the heart is stifled by legal procedures, attorneys' advice, and the lengthy delay between injury and trial. At mediation, the parties to a dispute get the chance to talk at three different opportunities: first, they can tell their side of the story to the mediator and the other side during the initial joint caucus; second, they can tell their side of the story to the mediator in private caucus; third, they can tell their side of the story to the opposing party in a private conversation, outside of the presence of the mediator or attorneys, but within the context of the mediation session. These opportunities to share what they think happened to them, the impact of the dispute on their lives, and to hear the point of view of the other disputant -- all in a confidential setting -- provide the cathartic venting that is essential to moving on into the future. It often leads to resolution without the pain and risk of additional litigation.