Peace Studies and Political Science Mariia Levchenko
Understanding National Dialogues: Exploring Features, Challenges, and Implications for Political Transitions and Sustainable Peace
National Dialogues have increasingly become vital for managing political transitions and fostering sustainable peace worldwide. This research project seeks to understand the effectiveness of National Dialogues by examining cases in Chad and the potential for such a process in Ukraine. By analyzing both the political and procedural elements, along with the contextual factors that influence outcomes, this study aims to provide a nuanced understanding of how these inclusive dialogues can resolve conflicts and support post-conflict/war recovery.In 2022, Chad implemented a National Dialogue involving diverse stakeholders—from the ruling junta to civilian groups—which aimed to enhance national cohesion and lay foundations for a peaceful future. However, the effectiveness of this dialogue hinges not just on its conduct but also on the ongoing engagement and implementation of agreements. Similarly, Ukraine, which is currently fighting an invasion and considering the implementation of a Peace Plan formula, presents a unique scenario to explore the potential and challenges of initiating a National Dialogue there. The anticipated comparative analysis will highlight common features, challenges, and lessons from both contexts, offering insights beneficial for other regions experiencing political upheaval.
Biography
Dr. Mariia Levchenko, recipient of the 2023 Luxembourg Peace Prize and 2022 McCain Global Leader, holds a Ph.D. in International Economics and has an extensive background in peacebuilding and civilian protection. Her professional roles have included Senior Protection Advisor at the Center for Civilians in Conflict, Peacebuilding Officer at the Romanian Peace Institute (PATRIR), and European Director of Outreach and Training at the River Phoenix Center for Peacebuilding. She has also contributed research on National Dialogue for the United States Institute of Peace (USIP) and the Berghof Foundation, focusing on its applications in post-war scenarios. As a Dialogue Facilitation Officer at the OSCE, Dr. Levchenko has been instrumental in advancing civilian-military dialogues and protection efforts in regions such as Ukraine, Uganda, Chad, and Bosnia and Herzegovina. An expert trainer and practitioner in "Dialogue and Peacebuilding," she specializes in dialogue programs, facilitation, conflict resolution, and trauma healing.