Irene: Conflict Resolution through Classical Literature in Amazonia

Dr. Martin Dinter (Reader in Latin Literature and Language), Prof. Jeiviane Justiniano Da Silva (Intercultural Education and Educação Escolar Indígena, University of the State of Amazonas (UEA)), Prof. Carlos Renato Rosario de Jesus (Literature and Culture, University of the State of Amazonas(UEA)), Prof. Ronald Forero Alvarez (Classics Education, University La Sabana, Bogotá), Fundação Muraki (Non-profit foundation attached to the Universidade do Estado do Amazonas), high school teachers (collaborators on adapting and translating materials), and journalism students from the State University of Amazonas (UEA) and University La Sabana (supporting media and evaluation efforts)

The Irene project, led by Dr. Martin Dinter, adapted classical literature to equip indigenous women activists in the Amazon with mediation skills to handle disputes in their communities. In collaboration with the University of the State of Amazonas (UEA), University La Sabana, Fundação Muraki, and local educators, the project translated and adapted conflict resolution materials originally developed for Colombian schools. These resources were transformed to reflect indigenous traditions, Amazonian myths, and real-world community disputes. The materials, now available in Portuguese and Nheengatu (a Tupi-Guarani language), provide culturally relevant tools to address conflicts over land, water, and gender-based violence.

The project brought together academics, educators, and indigenous activists, ensuring that the training materials were both practical and rooted in local knowledge. The project also strengthened ties between King’s College London and Amazonian institutions, laying the groundwork for continued collaboration. The adapted materials will be used in future training workshops, where indigenous women will be trained as mediators and share their skills within their communities. The team is now seeking further funding to expand the training and support long-term peacebuilding initiatives in the Amazon.

For full details of the project, please see the PDF case study below.

Irene: Conflict Resolution through Classical Literature in Amazonia – PDF Case Study