Norway’s foreign minister adresses the “deficit of dialogue” in international relations and argues that the need for dialogue in international relations has never been greater.
Minister Støre states that the global conflict picture has changed. The international scene is no longer dominated by diplomats, but new actors are on the scene, loosely called “groups”, but all representing various interests. The group dynamic can be a source of conflict and Mr. Støre argues that dialogue and talks with these groups is necessary for maintaining peace, as well as for reconciliation. Other groups are fighting for a better world – and according to the foreign minister, it is necessary that we understand all of these different groups through communication and conversation. Understanding does not imply agreement, but it can lead to mutually acceptable solutions that avoid outright conflict.
The last decades, we have witnessed historical events that have been met with military solutions instead of political and diplomatic engagement. Sometimes it is necessary, sometimes it is not. Minister Støre expresses the need for dialogue, even with violent groups, radicals and terrorists – this with the aim of a more secure and peaceful world for all.
This video clip is recorded under a conference in Geneva the 27th of November 2011 and is published on the websites of TED.