Oslo Forum 2024 sheds light on peace mediation in a world in flux
More than 100 leaders, conflict mediators, and actors from around the world gather in Norway this week to reflect on current peace efforts amidst escalating global conflicts and geopolitical polarisation.
The two-day meeting, hosted by the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue (HD), offers participants a discreet, informal environment to exchange perspectives, evaluate the changing dynamics of armed conflicts, and explore innovative approaches to their resolution.
“Peace diplomacy and dialogue are small investments compared to the enormous human and economic costs of war. When public discourse is characterised by polarisation and conflict, venues such as the Oslo Forum provide an opportunity for parties and other actors to talk to each other about difficult issues and focus on solutions,” said Minister of Foreign Affairs of Norway Espen Barth Eide.
Among high-level participants expected to attend are President of Somalia, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud; Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates of Jordan, Ayman Safadi; Deputy Prime Minister for Reintegration of Moldova, Oleg Serebrian; Minister of Foreign Affairs of Saudi Arabia, Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al-Saud; Minister for Foreign Affairs of Indonesia, Retno Marsudi; Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Qatar, Mohammed bin Abdulaziz Al-Khulaifi; Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the United Arab Emirates, Noura Al Kaabi; and United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk.
The theme of this year’s forum, “Mediation against all odds”, underscores the urgency of addressing shifting global power dynamics and recent challenges to the multilateral system and international law.
Discussions will delve into diplomatic developments in geopolitical hotspots and feature debates on the ongoing conflicts in Gaza, Ukraine, Sudan, Myanmar, and other war zones.
The agenda includes sessions on securing sustainable ceasefires, addressing maritime disputes, and tackling the pervasive violence associated with criminal organisations.
Since 2003, the Oslo Forum has served as a premier global peacemaking retreat, providing a platform for dialogue and collaboration among mediators, policymakers, and stakeholders. This year’s gathering builds on that legacy.
“When the world becomes more volatile, diplomacy and conflict resolution are all the more crucial. It is in everyone’s interest to help stop wars, improve humanitarian access, and contribute to long-term political solutions. That is why this year’s Oslo Forum is more important than ever,” says Eide.
The closed-door discussions under the Chatham House Rule of non-attribution allow participants to speak openly and put forward ideas for lasting solutions to ongoing conflicts.
Click here to read and download the full Oslo Forum 2023 report.
Click here for Seasons 1-5 of The Mediator’s Studio podcast series with prominent peacemakers.
NOTE TO MEDIA
Attendance at the Oslo Forum is by invitation only and the Chatham House Rule applies throughout the event.