Dogged Advocacy and Unwavering Positivity. Member Spotlight: Karl Printemps Mercier
Karl Mercier’s journey in conflict resolution and mediation advocacy is driven by a genuine passion for peacebuilding and advocacy. Growing up in Montreal, Karl developed an early awareness of global conflicts and their human impact. “I think it was just compassion for people that are going through violent conflict. It was a desire to make a difference,” he explains. This concern led him to pursue studies in anthropology at Concordia University, followed by Conflict Studies at St. Paul University.
Engagement Globally
Karl’s involvement with Mediators Beyond Borders International dates back to 2010, when he played a role in advocating for the inclusion of mediation in a treaty annex under UN auspices. “We were somewhat successful, seven years later, which was great. Unfortunately that conflict is still exacerbated with weapons proliferation, so it continues to be an issue I am dedicated to advocating for,” he reflects. Since then, he has continued to advocate for mediation as a key tool in addressing global disputes, particularly those involving nuclear non-proliferation and high-stakes international negotiations.
Although Karl does not formally practice mediation, his focus has been on advocacy work, leveraging his knowledge and experience to promote mediation as a viable alternative to violence and prolonged conflict. His recent efforts include lobbying political leaders, such as the U.S. President Joe Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, to incorporate neutral third-party mediation in ongoing crises. While he cannot always measure the direct impact of his recommendations, he remains committed to pushing for diplomatic solutions in conflict zones.
Karl has also worked extensively in the humanitarian sector, fundraising for organizations such as UNICEF, Oxfam, Doctors Without Borders, and the Red Cross. “I did my part and did a decent job, so I’m happy about that,” he says. His experience in this field reinforced his belief that while humanitarian aid is crucial, addressing the root causes of conflict through mediation and dialogue is equally—if not more—important.
Looking ahead, Karl hopes to deepen his engagement with MBBI by contributing to advocacy initiatives that promote mediation as a standard practice in international conflict resolution. He envisions a future where mediation becomes an institutionalized approach within government frameworks, with more trained diplomats dedicated to conflict resolution. Karl addressed the need to strengthen training programs and educational opportunities for aspiring mediators and in the field of mediation generally.
Karl’s message to aspiring mediators and advocates is simple yet powerful: “Be proud to be a peacemaker. It’s noble work, and while progress can be slow, every effort contributes to a larger movement toward peace.” He also advises those entering the field: “Love the work, be positive, and don’t get frustrated by the pace of progress–building sustainable change takes time.”
Article by Sarah Stenovec, MBBI Writer