The Mediation Support Network (MSN) is a small, global network of primarily non-governmental organisations that support mediation in peace negotiations.
Mission
The mission of the MSN is to promote and improve mediation practice, processes and standards to address political tensions and armed conflict.
Furthermore, the MSN connects different mediation support units and organisations with the intention of
- promoting exchange about planned and ongoing activities to enable synergies and cumulative impact;
- providing opportunities for collaboration, initiating and encouraging joint activities;
- sharing analysis of trends and ways to address emerging challenges in the field of peace mediation.
Activities
The MSN meets once a year in different places. The organisation of the meetings rotates and each meeting is hosted by a networking partner. Each meeting has a primary topical focus which is jointly decided by all network members. In principle, the travel expenses and costs of personal accommodation for representatives are paid by their respective member organisation.
In addition to the MSN meetings, specific projects and initiatives are implemented jointly by some of the member organisations.
History
The MSN was established in September 2008 and convened for the first time in Switzerland. Since then, the MSN has been growing and new member organisations (especially from the Global South) have joined the initiative.
The MSN defines mediation support as activities that assist and improve mediation practices, e.g. training activities, developing guidance, carrying out research, working on policy issues, offering consultation, backstopping ongoing mediation processes, networking and engaging with parties.
