“Democracy Today” NGO, in partnership with the Folke Bernadotte Academy, is implementing the project “Strengthening Peace and Resilience in Border Communities of Armenia through Empowering Local Leadership.” Within the framework of the project, a training on “Facilitation and Mediation Skills” was held for members of municipal councils, as well as heads of departments and divisions of local administrations from Tavush and Gegharkunik regions.
During the training, participants were introduced to facilitation and peace mediation tools, took part in trust-building exercises, and discussed effective mechanisms for community dialogue and cooperation.
The opening remarks and presentation of the program were delivered by Folke Bernadotte Academy representatives Julia Qvist Uddenberg and Mona Hossaini, as well as Gyulnara Shahinyan, Founder and President of “Democracy Today” NGO.
On the first day of the training, participants explored the main approaches and tools of facilitation. Julia Qvist Uddenberg presented the topic “Facilitation: Making the Process Easier and the 4-Step Practice,” as well as key facilitation skills.
Mona Hossaini introduced the “Three Ps” approach — People, Purpose, and Process — and presented the two core criteria of facilitation, along with communication techniques such as reframing and validation.
Participants engaged in role-playing exercises and practical activities, applying community meeting facilitation and effective communication skills. The day concluded with an individual reflection session focused on future application of the acquired knowledge.
The second day of the training focused on creating more inclusive and participatory community dialogues. Discussions addressed mechanisms for creating safe and trusting environments, challenges encountered during facilitation, as well as wellbeing, grounding, and immediate support strategies.
During group work sessions, participants developed action plans for activities to be implemented in their communities, applying the knowledge and skills gained throughout the training.
The training aimed to strengthen the capacities of local leaders in fostering constructive communication, trust, and peaceful cooperation within their communities.
The project is implemented with the support of FBA.
This post is also available in: