Prof. Nazar Al Baharna, Former Minister of State for Foreign Affairs of Bahrain, Former Dean of Engineering at Bahrain University, Visiting Research Scholar at Georgetown University, ICD Advisory Board Member

Q: What are the six primary pillars that contribute to conflicts according to the proposed model?

Conflicts generally stem from issues related to politics, economics, environment, social factors, cultural concerns, and human rights. Sustainable development requires addressing these specific areas rather than focusing solely on top-level political negotiations.

Q: Why does the model emphasize community development enterprises over traditional political mediation?

Traditional mediation often fails because it focuses on conflicting elites rather than the needs of the population. Empowering people through local enterprises ensures that solutions directly improve their lives, security, and economic well-being.

Q: How do community development enterprises function in terms of governance?

Every eligible adult becomes a shareholder in the community enterprise, which functions as a local entity. Through a general assembly, members elect a board to manage essential public services, effectively allowing democracy and governance to grow from the grassroots level up.

Q: What is the role of the government in the community development enterprise model?

The government retains the responsibility for creating legislation, while the actual operation of services like education, healthcare, and infrastructure is outsourced to the community companies. This shift ensures services are run by the people who use them.

Q: How can countries avoid future conflicts using this framework?

By monitoring and proactively addressing the six pillars of sustainable development, nations can identify social or environmental grievances before they escalate. Consistent engagement with the public ensures their requirements are met and conflicts are prevented.

Abstract

This video features Prof. Nazar Al-Baharna discussing a new model for global conflict resolution that shifts focus from top-down political mediation to sustainable development. By addressing economic, social, environmental, cultural, and governmental factors through community-led enterprises, he proposes a grassroots approach to democracy and human rights. This method empowers citizens to manage their own services and economic stability, aiming for lasting peace beyond traditional diplomatic intervention.