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Mediation as a Method of Conflict Resolution: Two Cases

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  • Ott, Marvin C.

Abstract

The literature, both empirical and theoretical, regarding techniques of peaceful settlement in international conflict is notable primarily for its brevity. This is true of mediation as one principal method of conflict resolution. Those studies that are available tend to emphasize the diverse functions an intermediary can perform, resulting in a generally optimistic assessment of the utility of mediation. There has been an accompanying tendency to focus upon the qualities of a successful or ideal mediator. But an analysis of two cases of mediation suggests that: (1) the scope for effective mediation is much narrower than a list of the functions an intermediary can serve might indicate, and (2) the success or failure of mediation is largely determined by the nature of the dispute with the attributes and tactics of the mediator a marginal factor at best. Characteristics of a conflict which affect its susceptibility to mediation include: (1) the distribution of power among the protagonists, (2) the interests at stake, (3) the price of nonsettlement, and (4) personality factors.

Suggested Citation

  • Ott, Marvin C., 1972. "Mediation as a Method of Conflict Resolution: Two Cases," International Organization, Cambridge University Press, vol. 26(4), pages 595-618, October.
    • Handle: RePEc:cup:intorg:v:26:y:1972:i:04:p:595-618_00
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    Cited by:

    1. Eric Tremolada Álvarez, 2014. "Los procesos de integración como factor de paz," Books, Universidad Externado de Colombia, Facultad de Derecho, number 1020.
    2. Dominic Rohner, 2018. "Success Factors for Peace Treaties: A Review of Theory and Evidence," Cahiers de Recherches Economiques du Département d'économie 18.08, Université de Lausanne, Faculté des HEC, Département d’économie.
    3. Derrick V. Frazier, 2006. "Third Party Characteristics, Territory and the Mediation of Militarized Interstate Disputes," Conflict Management and Peace Science, Peace Science Society (International), vol. 23(4), pages 267-284, September.
    4. Kyle Beardsley, 2008. "Agreement without Peace? International Mediation and Time Inconsistency Problems," American Journal of Political Science, John Wiley & Sons, vol. 52(4), pages 723-740, October.
    5. Yukari Iwanami, 2014. "The selection and signaling effects of third-party intervention," Journal of Theoretical Politics, , vol. 26(1), pages 135-157, January.
    6. Jonathan Wilkenfeld & Kathleen Young & Victor Asal & David Quinn, 2003. "Mediating International Crises," Journal of Conflict Resolution, Peace Science Society (International), vol. 47(3), pages 279-301, June.
    7. Jacob Bercovitch & Jeffrey Langley, 1993. "The Nature of the Dispute and the Effectiveness of International Mediation," Journal of Conflict Resolution, Peace Science Society (International), vol. 37(4), pages 670-691, December.
    8. Jacob Bercovitch & Allison Houston, 2000. "Why Do They Do It Like This?," Journal of Conflict Resolution, Peace Science Society (International), vol. 44(2), pages 170-202, April.
    9. Melin, Molly M., 2016. "Business, peace, and world politics: The role of third parties in conflict resolution," Business Horizons, Elsevier, vol. 59(5), pages 493-501.

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