Negotiator In Times Of War is a thought-provoking documentary produced by VPRO Backlight that explores the world of underground diplomacy and the complex dynamics of conflict resolution in war zones. The film follows the journey of Dutch former soldier Lex Wenneker, who for many years has worked as a negotiator in conflict areas and been an advocate for peace in regions where many others cannot tread.
The film begins with a dramatic and insightful introduction where Wenneker walks us through how he became a peace negotiator in some of the world's most dangerous and troubled regions. He shares his experiences, from negotiating with armed groups in Congo and South Sudan to getting kidnapped in Syria, and how he navigated through these conflicts successfully.
We take a deep dive into the world of Wenneker, where we learn how he uses his skills in crisis intervention and negotiation, to bring peace to communities that are torn apart by wars. We are able to see, through his eyes, how he would get into the mind of the enemy, understanding what they want, and finding ways to use humankind's shared interest to broker groundbreaking deals that bring long-lasting peace.
As the film progresses, we see Wenneker's work evolving, from informal talks with local elders to high-level negotiations with world leaders such as President Omar al-Bashir, who was then the President of Sudan. We listen to the many stories of his failures and successes, and how he approaches the complex task of brokering peace in places like Somalia, Sri Lanka, and Afghanistan.
The film also showcases the human side of Wenneker, whose tenacity and ability to connect with people from differing cultures make him successful. We see him empathize with the victims of war, people who have watched their loved ones die in senseless violence, and who are looking for solutions that can help them rebuild their lives. We see him give hope to those who have lost confidence in the possibility of a peaceful future.
One of the most remarkable things about the film is the sense of insecurity and danger that hangs over it. Wenneker's work is not an easy task, and we get to witness firsthand the toll it takes on him, mentally and physically. His job exposes him to danger regularly, and he often finds himself at risk of getting kidnapped, shot, or caught in the crossfire. In one scene, he is seen working with a group of individuals in Yemen to broker a peace deal that would end years of conflict. Despite their best efforts, the negotiation fails, and we see Wenneker struggling with the feelings of failure and bitterness that come with failing to achieve something that he has dedicated his life to.
Overall, the documentary Negotiator In Times Of War is an eye-opening and emotional watch that gives viewers an inside look into the world of peace-making and conflict resolution. Through Wenneker's experiences, we learn about the power of empathy, communication, and perseverance when building lasting peace. The documentary is expertly crafted and takes the viewer on an emotional journey that is both entertaining and informative. It provokes thoughts about our deeper understanding of wars and why effective conflict resolution is crucial for the global community.
