The Process of Developing Mediators for Civil Disputes in Surin Province through Buddhist Peaceful Means
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Abstract
The study had the following objectives: 1) to investigate the problems, context, and needs related to the development of mediators for civil disputes, as well as the theories pertaining to modern mediation practices; 2) to analyze the Buddhist peaceful means that support the process of developing mediators for civil disputes; and 3) to develop and present a process for training mediators for civil disputes in Surin Province through Buddhist peaceful means. The study was conducted within the framework of the Four Noble Truths (Ariyasacca) and utilized the 9-Ladder Approach of the Peace Studies Program at the Graduate School, Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University.
The study found the following results: 1) The problems faced by mediators in resolving civil disputes in Surin Province included: (1) Mediators lack essential mediation skills; (2) Mediators struggle to analyze the underlying points of conflict; (3) Mediators lack a clear understanding of the civil dispute mediation process; (4) Mediators do not possess professional mediation techniques; and (5) Mediators are familiar with theoretical concepts but lack practical experience in dispute mediation. 2) The Buddhist peaceful means that support the development of mediators for civil disputes include the Four Noble Truths (Ariyasacca) for analyzing the parties involved in the conflict, with a focus on developing mediators who can resolve civil disputes. This process is based on the Threefold Training (Tisikkhā), which emphasizes the qualities mediators should possess. The outcomes of developing mediators for civil disputes can be assessed through the principles of the Four Developments (Bhāvanā), which encompass physical, moral, emotional, and intellectual aspects. 3) The process of developing mediators for civil disputes in Surin Province through Buddhist peaceful means resulted in a peace innovation consisting of the following six steps: volunteering, building trust, fostering understanding, showing compassion, ensuring satisfaction, and leaving a positive impression.
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