ABSTRACT
The facilitator's role is strictly confined to promoting communication between the parties in conflict. Facilitators are less likely than conciliators to be seen as meddlers, busybodies or preachers seeking to reconcile differences. HW recognized that part of the role of the mediator or facilitator is to "help to provide favourable circumstances in which the parties can confront the issues". Mediation must not be used to hold back the inevitable process of change. In political conflict, gross asymmetry of power inhibits the negotiation process and is detrimental to a lasting negotiated settlement. The role of the mediator/facilitator as practised by HW is, centrally, of course, to bring about such situations. Mediators "have the freedom to be flexible, to disregard protocol, to suggest unconventional remedies or procedures, to widen or restrict the agenda, and to press for constructive initiatives or magnanimous gestures".
