Mediation as a Peaceful Means of Conflict Resolution : The Experience of the State of Qatar

The LL.M thesis investigates the theme of conflict resolution through mediation, focusing on the State of Qatar’s experience in this field. It draws a theoretical framework by introducing four theories that will guide the research: the Islamic Theory of Peaceful Conflict Resolution, the Cultural-Sensitive Approach, the Interactive Theory of Peacekeeping and Mediation, and the Win-Lose, Lose-Lose, Win-Win approach. Following the theoretical foundation, the study presents the characteristics and strategies of mediation, and discusses the international legal framework for conflict resolution, providing a perspective for analysis. Turning to Qatar's experience, the thesis outlines Qatar’s foreign policy's historical development and mediation endeavors. It examines mediation as a tool aligned with Qatar's foreign policy, delving into the country's mediation efforts in five case studies: Yemen, Lebanon, Sudan (Darfur conflict), Afghanistan, and Chad, where Qatar played a pivotal role in facilitating peace agreements. The research aims to contribute to academic and practical discussions on mediation theory using the example of a State that has adopted it as a significant tool in its foreign policy. The thesis concludes with a brief overview of the current international law regulating mediation and discusses the findings about Qatar’s experience in mediation based on the available sources.