CONFLICT RESOLUTION STRATEGIES IN MULTICULTURAL SCHOOLS: BUILDING BRIDGES OF UNDERSTANDING AND HARMONY IN DIVERSITY

Abstract

Multicultural schools are educational spaces steeped in ethnic, religious, cultural, and linguistic diversity, thus presenting a significant potential for conflict due to differences in values, stereotypes, prejudice, and cross-cultural miscommunication. This article aims to comprehensively examine conflict resolution strategies in multicultural schools in an effort to build understanding, tolerance, and harmony within diversity. This research uses a qualitative approach with library research methods, analyzing various scientific literature in the form of journal articles, books, and relevant and up-to-date educational policy documents. Data were analyzed using content analysis techniques through the stages of data reduction, categorization, interpretation, and synthesis. The results of the study indicate that conflicts in multicultural schools generally stem from stereotypes, discrimination, value differences, and a lack of intercultural communication competency. Effective conflict resolution strategies include the application of restorative justice approaches, intercultural dialogue, mediation, win-win strategies, and strengthening cooperative learning. Furthermore, the integration of character education and multicultural education into the curriculum, supported by inclusive school policies and diversity-responsive leadership, has been shown to strengthen empathy, tolerance, and social cohesion. This article recommends strengthening multicultural education policies, improving educator competency, and fostering collaboration between schools, parents, and communities as a sustainable effort to create a peaceful and harmonious school environment amidst cultural diversity.