The Task

How do we figure all this out?

There are many sides to complex issues, especially when people are deeply committed to them.

As a member of one of the four delegations -- India, Pakistan, Kashmir, the U.S.-- you will investigate one of the six viewpoints involved.

Then you will work with your teammates to design a peace proposal that will consider everyone's needs.

You now have to make some choices:

First: Which of the four delegations will you join?

Split up into four groups: India, Pakistan, Kashmir or U.S.

Second: As part of your delegation whose viewpoint will you take:

1. Kashmiris?
   
2. Pakistanis?
   
3. Indians?
   
4. Americans?
   
5. Nuclear Non-Proliferationists?
   
6. Human Rights Activists?

What steps do you think would be effective in fostering a lasting peace between India and Pakistan?

Here are the steps you will now take:

Step One

Step Two

1. Kashmiris'

   

2. Pakistanis'

   

3. Indians'

   

4. Americans'

   

5. Nuclear Non-Proliferationists'

   

6. Human Rights Activists'

Once you have carefully examined your role portfolio you will become an expert in your view point.

Each of the 4 delegations will have atleast 6 members, each representing a different view.

Step Three

You will bring your research back to the delegation of your choice:
India, Pakistan, Kashmir or U.S.

Then give a summary of your viewpoint to them.

Step Four

Your delegation will then collaborate and create a new solution to the crisis in the subcontinent:

A written peace proposal for consideration by the United Nations.

This process is called consensus.

Step Five

Finally, you will write a letter which will detail your point of view about the crisis in Kashmir.

• You will send this letter to the editor of a newspaper.

• Or send it as email to the President of the United States.

• Or post it to a chat web site, an online news source or to a peace organization.

Already you have background about the conflict and the peace process.

Now get ready to transform yourself into the role of an expert by researching your role portfolio below which contains relevant web sites.

Pause -- Think -- Make a choice.

• Select a role for yourself.

• Look for information that will support your point of view for accomplishing a peace accord.

• Some questions have been listed for each role to get you started.

• But don't let them stop your own questioning!

Now go to the next page, click the role of your choice, investigate the web sites listed and start preparing your arguments!