The Foreign Service Journal, January 2006

and the local people have, in turn, been able to create a more stable sit- uation in the area. In several instances, individuals trained in con- flict resolution moved into govern- ment positions and were able to apply the skills obtained thanks to IMTD training (Cyprus and Liberia, for example). In Zimbabwe, IMTD helped Africa University create the first master’s degree program in con- flict resolution for African students on their own continent. John’s experience in multilateral diplomacy (Marshall Plan, CENTO, U.N., ILO), gath- ered over the course of a long Foreign Service career, accounts for IMTD’s success. His FS work led to the conviction that consensus-building is the most important ingredient for any negotiation. He also realized that gov- ernments alone can no longer solve global problems, and that political and economic peacebuilding must include a systems approach to social building; i.e.: working with people to build a sustainable and peaceful world. The work truly touches the heart! The Power of Enthusiasm IMTD is now in its 13th year. Because of the constant shortage of funding, no one on the staff, including John, who is chairman of the board and CEO, receives a salary. Yet applications for internships are overwhelming (70 for seven positions in the last semester). The 175 interns since 1992 — graduate students from around the world—have all carried the concept of multi-track diplomacy back to their countries and communities. They understand that it is the people who ultimately will decide whether a peace agreement will hold or not. Often these students invite John into their academic settings to lecture and share his experiences in the Foreign Service and with multi-track diplomacy and conflict solv- ing around the world. Other NGOs look for inspiration and partnership in peacebuilding, too, so that John gives an average of about 110 speeches a year, both in the U.S. and abroad. Furthermore, many a thesis in the field of conflict resolution has been written under his guidance. Being sur- rounded by so many young people and seeing their enthu- siasm to do their part in a troubled world keeps John actively involved and optimistic in all aspects of life. Is the work rewarding (even with- out pay)? Yes. Is it easy? No. IMTD continuously struggles to obtain funding for its many projects and new requests for help. The institute’s loyal following of over 1,400 members is enthusiastic and dedicated, but their financial support covers only a small part of the overhead costs. Project money comes in haltingly and only after overcoming incredible adminis- trative barriers. Finally it appears that some U.S. government agencies are actively beginning to concern themselves with the issues of trans- formation of conflict, but they have yet to fully understand the contribution that a multi-track systems approach can make. Unfortunately, the big foundations have recently become increasingly restrictive in their overseas funding for peace and conflict resolution. The business commu- nity could and should play a much bigger role as the development of its markets depends on having peace in the region, but has not yet recognized social peacebuild- ing as the indispensable tool it is. An Exciting Chapter Fortunately, though, conflict resolution is now an established field and is taught at many universities, here and abroad. Moreover, the idea of having a combined degree in law and conflict resolution — long promoted by John — has now taken hold at American University in Washington, D.C. Christel, a former European civil servant of the Council of Ministers of the European Communities (now E.U.), continues to chair the Associates of the American Foreign Service Worldwide French Group and is presi- dent of the D.C. Area Phi Beta Kappa Association. At their condominium home, she and John regularly host the United Nations Association-National Capital Area Task Force for Cultures of Peace and organize the Foreign Policy Association’s annual Great Decisions Project. The chapter of life titled “After Retirement” is excit- ing. Despite her own busy schedule and many respon- sibilities, Christel supports John’s work wholeheartedly, at home and on the road. Both McDonalds love life and are committed to many more years of global peace- building. n F O C U S J A N U A R Y 2 0 0 6 / F O R E I G N S E R V I C E J O U R N A L 35 John’s Foreign Service work led to the conviction that consensus-building is the most important ingredient for any negotiation.