Introduction

The Oslo forum is an initiative led by the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the HD Centre to improve practice in conflict mediation, and to enhance the reputation and status of mediation as a profession. The Oslo forum is widely acknowledged to be a leading international network of conflict mediation practitioners.

Launched in 2003, the forum offers a unique opportunity for senior mediators and key peace process actors to share their experiences in an informal and discreet setting. In addition to an annual gathering in Oslo, the initiative also includes retreats which focus on region-specific issues or particular themes.

Where possible, material prepared for, or emerging from, the gatherings is shared with a wider audience, for example, through the dedicated Oslo forum website. The retreats deliberately refrain from seeking to generate specific recommendations or conclusions, but aim to stimulate debate and critically examine current practice.