Mediating a Pandemic Conflict

Description

Many conflicts have arisen due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Our group’s conflict scenario illustrates the inner conflicts (thoughts) and outward actions of various parties with different perspectives and conflict styles. The truckers are representing the point of view that personal freedom should be a priority, their thoughts show that fear and discomfort are motivating their aggressive behaviour. As health professionals, the nurses have witnessed personal suffering from the illness and are of the opinion that personal sacrifices are required for the greater good. The conversation between the two nurses shows how existing stressors have influenced their ability to remain calm, and heightened their desire to engage in conflict. The Senator intervenes as a mediator to de-escalate the situation by reframing the positions expressed and creating space for constructive listening. Conflict management & conflict resolution are combined by negotiating, but at the same time embedding cooperation. The mediator tries to understand the motives of all individuals and does not pose one solution just because she has authority. She tries to get both parties involved and obviously has an inclination to support the government’s mandates, which is her bias, but she does not force her decision, she provides statistics, and data, and allows the truckers to come with her to the COVID-19 meetings to discuss their concerns. The negotiation follows The Harvard Negotiation Project’s seven-part framework: 1) focus on interests, not positions, 2) invent options for mutual gain, 3) apply objective criteria, 4) improve communication, 5) build a positive negotiating relationship, 6) consider alternatives, 7) obtain commitments. Rationality (anger & anxiety emotions),is balanced with reasons, listening to them properly and trying to deescalate the conflict this way.