Tensions between the government and society can be seen all around the world. In some cases this issue cannot be addressed – nor the fact that dictatorship prevails. However, in democratic countries social dialogue not only can but should be preserved. That is when the tension becomes a mere misunderstanding. And if such a dialogue is accompanied by understanding and responsibility… it suddenly occurs that there is not a great distance between a misunderstanding and understanding.
On the one hand UBC‘s social negotiations are dedicated to local, regional and departmental authorities, and on the other to grassroots social movements which aim for a constructive discussion with “the top”. And there are quite a few items to have them on: wind farms, new roads and noise barriers, logging, changes in public transport routes, anti-flood policy any many, many more.
These are serious issues and so when leading negotiations in order to reach a consensus we always act in accordance with the law. At the same time we accept legitimate arguments and are able to turn them into a powerful weapon during a discussion. Our mission is to come to an understanding – a constructive agreement. Because the understanding lies within us.