Call for Session Proposals for a Conversation Series on Disasters, Resilience, and Peace

Jan 5, 2023 | EnPAx Disasters and Resilience Interest Group

The EnPAx Disasters and Resilience Interest Group is launching a periodic “Conversation Series,” which aims to spark conversations and discussions about issues of interest to the Group. Each Conversation session will be between 60 and 75 minutes long (the more conversation, the longer the session) and moderated by a D&R Interest Group member. Sessions will be open to all Interest Group members and other EnPAx members.

We are now inviting moderators to lead Conversation Sessions on any topic related to disasters and resilience from a peacebuilding and environment slant. Proposals can be submitted via google form, at https://forms.gle/TDjzCy1p3A21Q3B48.

To schedule a Conversation, a moderator should

1. Identify their topic. The scope should encourage a focused conversation and allow for open, informal, reflective dialogue.

2. Propose the topic to the Chairs, Kristin & Kelly, via google form (https://forms.gle/TDjzCy1p3A21Q3B48). The topic proposal should include a short one-sentence description, a short description, proposed dates/times with time zone (at least 30 days in advance), and an explanation of how the conversation would be of interest for group members and/or the wider EnPAx community. Note: Conversations will be scheduled at least a month in advance, so moderators should consider their schedules from 30 days onward.

3. In preparation for the session, moderators should

a. Commit to moderating the session to ensure that all participants have a chance to speak; and guide the conversation as needed. These tasks do not limit the moderator’s own participation in the conversation, but the intent should be to have as many voices involved in the conversation as possible.

b. Provide a short (5 minute) presentation to open the session with 1-2 PowerPoint™ slides to introduce the discussion and one or two key topics for the conversation. (Basically, the description and necessary background/context as slides.)

Once a Conversation proposal has been submitted, the Interest Group chairs will schedule a time for the session with a focus on including as many time zones as possible. Proposed times and dates will be cleared with the moderator.

Conversations will not be recorded to encourage a relaxed expression of views. Any use of information from a conversation will be in accord with the Chatham House Rule, that information can be used but not cited as coming from a specific individual. The Interest Group chairs will provide a ground rules slide, including guidance on the Chatham House Rule, for use at the beginning of each conversation.

Please email the Chairs with any questions. We’re looking forward to enjoyable discussions and sharing knowledge, perspectives, and expertise!

Warm regards,

Your D&R Interest Group Chairs,

· C. Kelly, Havedisastercallkelly@gmail.com

· Kristin Weis, kristin.weis@gmail.com