Conflict Resolution Network has long held a special focus on "Building Conflict-Resolving Government".

Essential to this program has been to contact, over several years, candidates in federal, state and local government elections, and ask for them a commitment to campaign in conflict-resolving mode. We do this believing that courtesy and co-operation, rather than ranting and rubbishing, lead to the better comprehension and integration of diverse points of view.

We need the same co-operation, the same striving for consensus from government in times of peace as we would demand in times of war. Most of our concerns cross party lines to address the war on violence, drug abuse, crime, involuntary unemployment, racism, discrimination, and environmental degradation. All contributions need to be considered. Fighting factions deprive policy and decision-making of the great benefits of diversity.

What does Conflict-Resolving Government look like?

It can be a government that:

• focuses on issues, using resources to meet the real needs of the constituency.
• gives value for money: our taxes pay to have our needs addressed.
• keeps its promises and, while speaking of vision, does not promise what it cannot deliver.
• models courtesy, care, and common sense in addressing the issues, conflicts, and visions of the people it represents.
• pays special attention to nonviolent alternatives when there is a possibility of military intervention. See also: Costing war and nonviolent alternatives.

It can be a government of reconciliation that facilitates the healing of past divisions.

Political parties are built into our democratic system. CRN is not advocating their disappearance; rather the campaign promotes diversity and supports more productive and professional responses to the electorate's issues. This may involve less rigid policies and more freedom for a conscience-vote for party members, more autonomy and independence, and more porous partitions between parties. Collaborative structures could produce better decision-making, and better use of finances and resources.

We welcome your support and deeply appreciate your comments. We hope you will want to discuss this widely, perhaps including candidates in your own electorate.

This document is an invitation to participation. The essence of the program, Building Conflict-Resolving Government is a simple action.

Every politician in Federal, State or Local Government, and every candidate is asked to make four commitments. They are:

1. I will address the issues and refrain from making personal attacks on my opponents.
2. I will promote my own policies firmly and discuss dissenting views without abuse.
3. I will seek common ground, and acknowledge and build on the ideas of others without denigration.
4. I will work for change to make political discussion and behaviour more respectful.

Go on to: Dialogue and Debate