Debriefing Mediators to Learn from Their Experiences

This publication examines how to conduct interviews with mediators to learn lessons about their mediation method. These methodological debriefings are typically conducted by individuals who have not been directly involved in the mediator's work but who want to learn the mediator's perspective on what was done and why it was done. This handbook enhances the practice of mediation by showing how lessons from individual mediators can be identified and made available both to their organizations and to a wider practitioner audience. It also gives guidance to staff debriefing mediators who are or have been directly involved in peace negotiations. Outlining a four-step process, this guide details how to: prepare for the interview; conduct the interview; structure and analyze the experience; and disseminate the knowledge acquired.