Teaching Paper: Conflict Resolution Framework – A Practical Tool for Ethical Decision-Making in Non-Profits

Conflict is an inevitable part of organizational life, especially in non-profits where diverse stakeholders, limited resources, and ethical challenges intersect. This Teaching Paper introduces a seven-step Conflict Resolution Framework designed to help organizations manage disputes transparently and constructively: identifying conflicts, gathering information, analyzing root causes, developing solutions, making decisions, implementing resolutions, and monitoring outcomes. Drawing on Fisher and Ury, Bryson, Drucker, and Patton, the framework bridges negotiation theory with practical organizational tools. A case study illustrates its application in a regional education NGO, while tips, challenges, and reflection questions help practitioners adapt the model to their own contexts. By institutionalizing fair conflict resolution, non-profits can strengthen trust, reduce risk, and embed ethical decision-making into daily practice.