All hands on deck: peacemakers respond to rising conflicts and global instability
In June 2025, more than 140 diplomats, peacemakers, conflict actors, and experts from around the world convened outside the Norwegian capital for the twenty-second edition of the Oslo Forum. Amid a marked increase in armed conflicts and heightened geopolitical tensions, participants reaffirmed the importance of inclusive dialogue and sustained mediation efforts.
The theme of this year’s Forum, All hands on deck, reflected a shared understanding that navigating today’s complex conflict landscape requires a coordinated push to promote the peaceful settlement of disputes across institutions, regions, and sectors.
The Oslo Forum 2025 report summarises two days of in-depth discussions among international mediation actors, highlighting the rise in global conflicts and their impact on civilians — particularly in Ukraine, Gaza, Sudan, and Myanmar.
The report also reflects on the evolution of mediation, with multiple actors and overlapping negotiation tracks creating both challenges and opportunities in complex settings such as Sudan and the DRC.
Forward-looking sessions explored the use of mediation tools to address disputes in outer space and inter-state tensions, as well as the importance of backchannel diplomacy and well-designed ceasefire agreements.
The report includes reflections on mediation trends and the future of international diplomacy.
Click here to download the report.
Co-hosted by the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue (HD), the Oslo Forum is the leading international retreat for mediation and peacemaking. It brings together experienced practitioners and conflict actors to reflect on practice, build connections, and support ongoing peace efforts. All discussions are held under the Chatham House Rule to encourage open and honest exchange.
The new season of The Mediator’s Studio podcast is launching soon, featuring powerful stories from veteran mediators and negotiators working on some of the world’s toughest conflicts. Catch up on previous seasons here.
For further information, contact the Oslo Forum team at osloforum@hdcentre.org.
