The phrase "overt conflict" refers to a situation where there is open and visible friction or disagreement between individuals or groups. It means that the conflict is not hidden or secret, but rather out in the open for all to see. Full definition
This was especially true when there was a lot of overt conflict between the divorcing parents. (psychologytoday.com)
In the early years of television, this establishment of authoritarian interest was occasionally apparent in overt conflicts between management, producers, and advertisers. (religion-online.org)