Name: In defense of dialogue
Uploaded: 2012-01-11T16:18:23Z
Duration: 14 min 41 s
Description: In politics, it seems counterintuitive to engage in dialogue with violent groups, with radicals and terrorists, and with the states that support them. But Jonas Gahr Støre, the foreign minister of Norway, makes a compelling case for open discussion, even when our values diverge.

In politics, it seems counterintuitive to engage in dialogue with violent groups, with radicals and terrorists, and with the states that support them. But Jonas Gahr Støre, the foreign minister of Norway, makes a compelling case for open discussion, even when our values diverge.

In defense of dialogue

Modern conflicts are driven less by states and more by groups within societies, making traditional diplomacy less effective. Ten years after military intervention in Afghanistan, the country remains unstable, highlighting that political solutions, not just military ones, are essential. Successful change, as seen in South Africa’s reconciliation, came only through painful but honest dialogue. Without engaging even with those we oppose, societies risk deepening violence and missing real understanding.