Patterns of Negotiation in Non-War Disputes

In: International negotiation: a journal of theory and practice, Volume 7, Issue 3, p. 339-361

Abstract

Studies of militarized interstate dispute (MID) outcome variables have focused particularly on whether these disputes have resulted in war. With a few exceptions, this simple dichotomous dependent variable categorization largely ignores numerous militarized disputes with outcomes that fall short of war along with their respective settlement method. We propose that theories & findings on war might not apply to non-war disputes. This is especially true when considering approaches to conflict management. We find that (1) the outcome of war almost always results in one side prevailing. Negotiated settlement & compromise are more likely outcomes of non-war disputes. (2) Power relations play a key role in outcomes of war but have a much-reduced impact on non-war outcomes. (3) Territorial issues are associated with dispute occurrence & war. Territorial issues, at the same time, seem to lend themselves to negotiated & compromise outcomes. (4) Ripeness occurs at the mid-severity range as opposed to lower or higher levels. 8 Tables, 43 References. Adapted from the source document.