On 3rd October 2025, the Vidzeme Planning Region organised a capacity-building training event in Valmiermuiža dedicated to enhancing respectful, empathetic, and constructive communication and non-violent conflict resolution in the field of nature conservation.
More than 50 professionals from the Nature Conservation Agency, the State Environmental Service, and Valmiera Municipality participated in the training, which aimed to strengthen cooperation and mutual understanding among environmental institutions and the public.
Trainer Ilze Dzenovska, an expert in empathetic and non-violent communication, emphasised that in environmental matters, diverse value systems often intersect: “Each of us expects something from nature. Every conflict is an opportunity to understand the needs that lie behind opinions.”
Through practical exercises and real-life examples, participants explored how empathy and active listening can support respectful dialogue and foster understanding between different stakeholders. The training also addressed the causes of destructive communication and provided practical tools for leading difficult conversations in public participation processes.
The idea for this capacity-building event was inspired by experiences gained during a study visit to Slovenia, where the Slovenian Forest Service shared effective communication and conflict-resolution approaches used to balance nature protection with various social and economic needs.
