Created in 1996, the ESSEC Institute for Research and Education on Negotiation in Europe (or “IRENE”) continues to make a vital contribution, both in the classroom and in the field, to the education and application of mediation techniques. A case in point is its recent and vital contribution to the resolution of conflict and respect of the peace process in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

One institute, three missions

The institute’s tripartite mission comprises the application of academic theory into negotiation, the teaching of operational skills and concepts, and humanist action via the “Negotiators of the World” program. This is perfectly reflected by the initiative implemented in 2006 by ESSEC IRENE in order to restore trust and build bridges between the rival factions in war-stricken Congo.

The “Initiative for Collaborative Leadership and Cohesion in the Democratic Republic of Congo” (or ILCCE) is an NGO set up in partnership with Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars (Washington).

Drawing inspiration from the peace process in Burundi

Since January 2006, 30 workshops have been run by the ILCCE in Kinshasa, Goma, Butembo, Uvira, Minembwe, Bukavu and Matadi. Close to 700 key figures in the process, at national and local level, have taken part in at least one of these workshops. The ILCCE has drawn inspiration from the Burundi Leadership Training program (see the Spring 2006 International Newsletter), run by ESSEC IRENE and its partners.

The overall aim is to impart mediation techniques with a view to the warring factions then applying them and maintaining peace themselves. That said, the program also comprises an element of supervision to ensure that the various commitments are met, as well as the educational needs of participants.

Ministerial recognition of IRENE’s success

The success of the program was hailed even more recently by the French Foreign Affairs Minister Bernard Kouchner, during a stop-over as part of an official ministerial visit to Congo. The high praise received and the outcome so far of the ILCCE adds to the impressive track record of ESSEC IRENE. Over 2 500 participants per year benefit from the knowledge and skills of an institute that is truly established as the European leader in the field.

Bernard Kouchner meets with members of the ILCCE in Goma (Congo)