Official URL: http://kennedyinstitute.nuim.ie/journal-of-mediati...

Every new academic journal aspires to promote the development of knowledge in their subject. The Journal of Mediation & Applied Conflict Analysis (JMACA) intends to achieve this by stimulating thematic conversations between researchers and practitioners who are reporting and reflecting on all aspects and forms of conflict intervention. The Edward M Kennedy Institute for Conflict Intervention produces and hosts this journal. JMACA aims to further the Institute’s mission to build capacity in society for constructive approaches to conflict. The journal welcomes article submissions from professionals and academics in the fields of family mediation, workplace, commercial, multiparty, community, conflict resolution in education, collaborative practice, restorative practices and peacemaking. This invitation is made in the belief that the examination of the ideology and approaches to conflict and conflict intervention in many fields enables cross-fertilisation and increases depth in the knowledge base of each practice. This first issue contains a number of such varied and thought provoking articles. Mediated Dialogue and Systemic Change in Northern Ireland, by Duncan Morrow, Brendan McAllister, Joe Campbell & Derrick Wilson, who review and discuss the methodology and vision of a programme of mediated dialogues on policing and community relations in Northern Ireland. This article details a critical dialogue approach that addresses distrust between police and civilians, working to create a more restorative culture and will be of interest to all those concerned about healing splits between public and political organisations and citizens.