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Flashpoint Syria
Noam Ebner, Nellie Munin and Yael Efron
FlashPoint is a simulation game constructed as a teaching tool for the topics of conflict analysis and resolution, collaboration, negotiation, mediation, and public international law. Designed for dedicated and committed participants, FlashPoint engrosses participants in the simulated environment for a long period of time, ranging from one to three days, or from about six to sixteen hours. These can be conducted in a continuous, intensive manner or in multiple sessions over several lessons. This investment engenders two major learning outcomes: in-depth understanding of the complexities of managing international conflict and advanced skill-building in conflict resolution, negotiation, and mediation skills.The background scenario depicts a fictional dispute between Turkey and Syria, over a developing humanitarian crisis occurring in a piece of land claimed by both countries. Underlying this presenting issue is a broad range of international, national, and local interests, which must be resolved for a peaceful solution to be reached. However, power imbalances, as well as time pressure, present major obstacles to resolution. A team of UN mediators convenes negotiating teams from each country in an attempt to reach a negotiated settlement.The roles of the UN mediators can be stressed in mediation skill-building training or dropped altogether in order to allow participants to flex their unassisted negotiation skills.
Teacher’s Manual (PDF) available on Mitchell Hamline Open Access