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Iulia E. Padeanu
from the outside community even during the third pre-contact workshop
(Post-it Notes Reflections, Holywood Inside Pre-Contact Workshop
3, 20 May 2013). However, during the first meeting anxieties slowly
eased and the women began to share personal stories of their families,
background, and hobbies. Soon, the two groups, inside and outside, had
merged into one and the conversation moved from ‘us and them’ to just
‘us’ (Observation, Holywood Contact Workshop 1, 8 August 2013).
In post-conflict situations groups generally tend to segregate as a result
of mutual distrust and ingrained prejudices. Although not the primary
instigator of conflict, segregation can play a significant role in establishing and maintaining conflict between communities and can sometimes exacerbate conflict by prolonging mutual ignorance (Hewstone et
al 2008: 202). It also creates mutual ignorance, suspicion, and distrust
by maintaining negative stereotypes (Gallagher 1995: 27-42). Misinterpretations and mutual ignorance c an further exacerbate old grievances
within the collective memory of a community which can lead to renewed
or repeated violence and lack of intergroup trust (Hewstone et al 2008:
207). Positive, sustained contact has the potential to reduce these negative aspects of post-conflict intergroup relations, as it encourages mutual understanding and tolerance. Contact further reduces prejudice by
lowering intergroup anxiety, which stems mainly from the anticipation
of negative consequences for oneself and for one’s community during
intergroup contact (Hewstone et al 2008: 204).
Conclusion
Through the FACE project, the MCT approach has been shown to aid
in breaking down prejudices between opposing groups; increasing tolerance, encouraging forgiveness, and developing trust among the various group members. These new or renewed relationships and positive
encounters lead to cooperation and collaboration, necessary for the development of a shared society. These elements of post-conflict societies