Facilitating Breakthrough Strategies to Address the Global Climate Crisis 

Climate change is an existential threat to human civilization as global warming and species extinction continue to accelerate, rapidly out-pacing present global security and the climate models calculating the risks to our living systems. “Integrative Peacebuilding” themes address the need to minimize human suffering in conflict zones, now increasingly facing the “multiplier” effects of extreme weather on food and health insecurity. Applying the “Comprehensive Approach” to these unprecedented problems challenges all levels of government, from Aboriginal Affairs to Agriculture, from Human Rights to Immigration, from Global Affairs to the Canadian Forces-- to transform from siloed policymaking to cooperative problem-solving. This course is designed to train leaders to facilitate inclusive meetings (including civil society institutions and leaders) that navigate potential policy solutions addressing the future of international diplomacy and foreign policy in a present and future environment more uncertain
than ever.

Dr. Merle Lefkoff, with decades of experience as an international mediator and facilitator introduces a new method for collective problem-solving called “the Adjacent Possible” or “TAP”. Drawn from Complexity science, the name is in reference to breakthrough ideas waiting in the wings to be uncovered in order to provide unprecedented and scalable ideas for how to anticipate and prepare for the unknown future. We learn how to turn the best new ideas into actionable policy initiatives to ensure a peaceful adaptation to living with nature on an altered
planet. Combining mini-lectures, suggested readings, participatory exercises, and opportunities for practicing together on Zoom, we will dialogue deeply about the consequences for international stability from new trade wars, resource wars, mass migration, and if there is interest, the heightened possibility of nuclear war resulting from the new arms race tied to climate-related events.

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After this workshop, participants will:

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Understand basic principles underlying Complexity science and Integrative Peacebuilding.

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Learn how to facilitate the TAP group process

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Expand their knowledge of the major risks to peace and national security from global warming.

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Recognize the difference between systemic interventions and band-aid solutions 

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Discuss and practice the skills necessary to facilitate a comprehensive and systemic approach to the policies needed to secure a peaceful transition to living on future Earth

Internalize hope for the possibility of a flourishing future for all species living on Earth