Resolving conflict: Manfred Max-Neef’s human needs model

Jon Nicholas has been involved in conflict resolution work in places such as Bosnia, Northern Ireland, the Middle East, Indonesia, and all over the UK. It has taken him into many schools, prisons and communities, often working with people holding extremist views to find solutions. He has worked with a number of NGOs including Save the Children, the European Union Police Mission, the Danish Refugee Council, Search for Common Ground and The Nansen Network. In a talk for Dorset Humanists in October 2024, he shared anecdotes and explored how a ‘needs-based approach’ to conflict resolution can help manage tension on many different levels. In addition, he drew attention to the role that emotions and habits can play in prolonging and exacerbating conflict.

Jon’s approach to conflict resolution is based on the ‘human needs model’ developed by Chilean economist Manfred Max-Neef. It outlines fundamental human needs categorised as universal and unchanging across all cultures. The nine needs are:

1. Subsistence

2. Protection

3. Affection

4. Understanding

5. Participation

6. Leisure

7. Creation

8. Identity

9. Freedom

Manfred Max-Neef (1932-2019) Creative Commons image by Olga Berrios

Creative Commons image by Olga Berrios.

Manfred Max-Neef’s human needs model is widely recognised as an approach to conflict resolution, particularly in contexts of post-conflict recovery and community rebuilding. His model emphasises the importance of addressing fundamental human needs such as security, participation, and identity during peacebuilding processes. By focusing on needs that are universal, it allows conflicting parties to find common ground, helping to de-escalate tensions and build mutual understanding. The model’s holistic view of human needs helps practitioners design solutions that foster long-term peace by meeting these needs comprehensively.

Link

You can watch Jon’s talk here or search for Dorset Humanists on YouTube.