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The Mediator's Studio

An Oslo Forum podcast

Released: 2026-04-22

Free New

53 Episodes

Audio

Free New

53 Episodes

Audio

Released: 2026-04-22

Most Recent Episode

Staffan de Mistura on timing in mediation, as in life and love

Time: 42:01

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Staffan de Mistura, veteran UN diplomat and currently the UN Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy for Western Sahara, shares insights from a career spanning more than fifty years, twenty-one missions, and service under four UN Secretaries-General. From humanitarian beginnings to senior political roles in Lebanon, Iraq, Afghanistan, and Syria, de Mistura has been at the heart of some of the world’s most complex conflicts.

He speaks about his enduring passion for the art of mediation—how moments that seem impossible can suddenly become entry points, why mediators must avoid preconditions that stall progress, and the crucial role of timing in both peacemaking and life. He also reflects on the personal costs of a career in conflict resolution and the lessons it offers about balance and commitment.

Above all, de Mistura shows that effective mediation depends on both speed and patience, the ability to seize fleeting opportunities, and a deep understanding of human connection—even in the most dangerous and unpredictable contexts.

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Episode ID: 1000763009584

GUID: 07e4dd53-d787-439e-b9b7-c03eb8b1a06a

Release Date: 22/04/2026, 06:00:00

Description

What happens behind closed doors when peace agreements are negotiated? The Mediator’s Studio gives you a glimpse into the normally hidden world of peace diplomacy. Host Adam Cooper brings you first-hand stories from mediators, armed groups and governments on what it takes to end wars. The Mediator’s Studio is a podcast from the Oslo Forum, the world’s leading mediation retreat. It’s brought to you by the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue.

Feed URL

https://feeds.captivate.fm/the-mediators-studio/

Apple Podcasts: Customer Reviews

2020-07-09

Excellent insight

Great insight with some fascinating stories behind significant events. Highly recommended

2020-06-28

Great podcast

This is a really fantastic podcast. Adam interviews a fascinating cast of people with great insights into mediation and some amazing stories to tell. Not to be missed!

2020-06-24

Fascinating for all

Masterful initial episodes of a fascinating topic. I am not a pro in the area of peace and mediation ( or even an amateur) but I imagine this is of equal interest to both people with expertise in this area and people, like me, with a general interest in how the world works. Top quality interviews and interviewer.