Small States and the Peaceful Settlement of Disputes (From Multilateral Negotiation and Mediation, P 77-88, 1985, Arthur S Lall, eds. - See NCJ-100837)

• NCJ Number: 100840
• Author(s): M Malitza
• Date Published: 1985
• Length: 12 pages
• Sale Source: Pergamon Press
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This paper discusses the constructive role of small states in helping resolve disputes between more powerful states.

Abstract

Negotiation models indicate that two concepts important to effective negotiation are the development of a comprehensive framework for the dispute within which disputants can perceive common interests as well as the development of a context favorable to negotiations. Small states can foster both of these circumstances by proposing comprehensive frameworks for negotiation that can expand the disputants' perspectives of the conflict, particularly conflicts in regions with which a small state is familiar. Small states also inject a commitment to peaceful resolutions of conflicts because of their sensitivity to the destructive consequences that armed conflict has for a nation's efforts to meet the pressing socioeconomic needs of its citizens. Small nations are also sensitive to the degree to which participation in armed conflict can reduce a nation's status in the international community. Overall, the circumstances of a small state foster its commitment to the peaceful resolution of conflict and the reordering of values that can increase disputants' commitment to common interests. The United Nations is the primary forum within which small nations can contribute to the resolution of international conflicts, but only if they maintain an independent, nonaligned posture. 16 notes.