The Role of Emotional Intelligence in Conflict Management

Emotional intelligence is panacea in the management of conflict. A house divided against each other disintegrates. Emotional intelligence can silence the gun and rebuild relationships. Cooperation and collaboration in the global village among global villagers is handy if they are to operate peacefully and leave no one behind in development. The African continent is one family and this continent’s inhibitors should be mature and employ emotional intelligence in resolutions of all sorts of conflicts. Understanding of each other’s moods and emotions lead to self-awareness, self-regulation, empathy, motivation and social skills. This leads to conflict resolutions, enjoyment of harmony and promotion of peace and tranquillity. The diversity of nationalities, interests, beliefs, views and values of people working in various industries, organisations and those in families is bound to create conflicts, however if emotional intelligence is put into practice these conflicts can easily be avoided and/or rectified without the gun and all forms of violence. Hence, this article explores the role of emotional intelligence in conflict management. The article uses existing literature and proffers thought provoking aspects of emotional intelligence in conflict management and peace building. It attempts to bring out the potential of emotional intelligence in building peaceful homes, societies and nations. Understanding of the value of articulating effective communication, as well as the importance of intentional listening is recommended when leaders negotiate conflicts and sometimes mediate conflicts between nations, industries, organisations and individuals in order for people of diverse cultures and beliefs to learn from and tolerate each other.