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What is Nonviolent Communication?

Nonviolent Communication is a dialogue method based on empathy and understanding to resolve conflicts. This article explores the role and significance of Nonviolent Communication in addressing climate change, international peace negotiations, and beyond.― How Words Can Create Peace ―( Ed Miliband, Source:The Guardian)November 2024, at the 29th UN Climate Change Conference (COP29) in Baku, Azerbaijan. The conference hall was filled with tension. Developed and developing countries were locked in a standoff over climate crisis funding.Documents lay on the table, the atmosphere was tense, and representatives faced each other with determined expressions. Every word and gesture carried weight. The two sides were firmly at odds over financial responsibility for climate action.“You must take responsibility for causing climate change.”The representative from a developing country spoke first.“We also have economic limitations.”A developed country representative responded.The negotiations remained deadlocked.Then, one individual shifted the atmosphere—UK Energy Secretary Ed Miliband. After carefully listening to the concerns of the developing country representatives, he spoke calmly:“We must acknowledge our past responsibilities.”All eyes turned to him.“The damage caused by climate change is not equal. Supporting developing countries is not just a moral obligation; it is an investment in a sustainable future.”His words moved the room. Representatives who had been in opposition began to see the issue from each other's perspectives.Finally, an agreement was reached: developed countries committed to providing $300 billion annually in public finance to support developing nations by 2035.In the end, a single empathetic statement opened the doors to negotiation. This is the transformative power of Nonviolent Communication.― What is Nonviolent Communication? ―Nonviolent Communication is not just about speaking gently. Developed by psychologist Marshall Rosenberg, it is a communication method that resolves conflicts through empathy and understanding, fostering deeper relationships between people.Everyone experiences conflict—whether it’s a disagreement with a friend or a workplace dispute. However, by accurately understanding and expressing emotions and needs, problems can be resolved without unnecessary confrontation.In international relations, Nonviolent Communication is regarded as a “Peace Technology” and is actively used by the UN, World Health Organization (WHO), and International Labour Organization (ILO) to prevent violence and promote cooperation.Nonviolent Communication is beneficial in all aspects of life, including education, healthcare, and business.■ Education: Conflicts between teachers and students decreased by 60%, academic performance improved by 40%.■ Healthcare: Improved relationships between nurses and patients after Nonviolent Communication training.(Source: Nurse Dash)■ Business: Workplace conflicts reduced by more than 50%, work efficiency increased by 30%.― What Happens When Nonviolent Communication is Absent? ―What happens when Nonviolent Communication is not practiced?1. Escalation of conflict: Blame and aggressive language provoke defensive reactions.2. Deterioration of relationships: Trust breaks down, leading to communication barriers.3. Reduced organizational productivity: Poor communication disrupts teamwork.― The Four Key Components of Nonviolent Communication ―Nonviolent Communication consists of four key elements. These simple principles can help in any situation.(Source: Agile Coffee)ObservationState objective facts without blame.Example: “You arrived 15 minutes after the meeting started.” (✔) vs. “Why are you always late?” (✖)FeelingsExpress emotions honestly without criticism.Example: “When you arrived late, I felt anxious and unsettled.”NeedsIdentify the underlying need behind emotions.Example: “Trust and reliability are important to me.”RequestsMake clear, actionable requests.Example: “Could you arrive before the meeting starts next time?”― Nonviolent Communication and Peace ―(Source: Hurriyetdaily news)History has shown that conflicts persist when there is a lack of mutual understanding. Issues such as climate change, war, and negotiations are not just words—they directly impact millions of lives.Thus, Nonviolent Communication is essential not only in personal interactions but also in fostering global peace.● Role in Addressing Climate ChangeSolving climate change requires cooperation among various stakeholders, including governments, businesses, civil society organizations, and individuals. Understanding different perspectives and needs is essential to forging agreements and collaborative solutions.As seen in the COP29 example, tackling climate crises requires a mindset that acknowledges differing interests and seeks mutual understanding.● Role in International Peace buildingNonviolent Communication also plays a crucial role in reducing conflicts and establishing sustainable peace.For instance, the peace negotiations between the Colombian government and FARC ended a 52-year civil war. From 2012 to 2016, trust was nearly nonexistent, but both sides continued dialogue.Although the negotiation table was filled with skepticism, they persisted in discussing land reform, political participation, and drug trafficking control. Eventually, on November 24, 2016, an official peace agreement was signed.What once seemed impossible became reality—violence ceased, and the war ended. This is the power of Nonviolent Communication.― Towards a More Peaceful World ―As the Colombian case demonstrates, Nonviolent Communication is not just a communication technique; it is a force that transforms individuals, societies, and even the world.Especially in addressing climate change and fostering international peace, Nonviolent Communication is a vital tool. Conversations based on mutual respect and empathy promote cooperation and contribute to sustainable solutions.At the 29th UN Climate Change Conference (COP29), representatives who had been at odds for hours finally began to see the issue from each other’s perspectives.That moment marked the beginning of change. A single statement led to a new agreement.Whether in our daily lives or at global negotiation tables, true change is driven by the effort to understand and empathize with others.“Peace begins with understanding one another.”- Dalai Lama -Written by: Written by: Sharon ChoiDirector of PlanningSunhak Peace Prize Secretariat