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Delegates explored every facet of the existing system and proposed
ways to move forward in the future. All stakeholder delegates were
engaged in this consensus-building process.
To ensure that common goals were met, the Summit was facilitated
by Sandra Janoff, PhD, Co-Director of Future Search Network and
co-developer of the Future Search methodology. This planning method has been used successfully around the world for complex issues, including social and health-related situations, where all parties have unique experiences and there are no obvious answers. Future Search meetings use a highly-structured methodology, which encourages self-management, innovation, and responsibility for action by participants before, during, and after the meeting. Through the formalized process for building a common ground
agenda, constructive actions are articulated, including taking
responsibility for what happens next. However, at the onset of
the meeting there are no pre-set goals or objectives. The agenda,
committed to by all, is determined entirely through the collective
process that considered all viewpoints.
By the close of this Summit, the stakeholders and leaders present
arrived at nine statements which represent areas of common
ground and shared priorities for further discussion and action.
Several newly formed multi-disciplinary workgroups agreed to carry
initiatives forward. Simultaneously many individuals identified
personal commitments within their own spheres of influence related
to improving conditions for women planning home birth. Other
leaders reported on their plans to review the vision statements
with their national organizations and constituents for endorsement,
commentary, and/or action.
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