Comparative consultation

The theory and practice of ‘sharing lessons’ between peace processes

Dados Bibliográficos

ID8912005
AutoresDavid Mitchell (0000-0002-2803-5243, autor correspondente)
Ano2020
Volume56
Fascículo1
Páginas65-82
Data de publicação2020-05-06
Peer ReviewedSim
Open AccessSim
TipoARTICLE
PeriódicoCooperation and Conflict (JOURNAL)
Identificadores do periódicoISSN: 0010-8367 • E-ISSN: 1460-3691
EditoraSAGE Publishing (PUBLISHER • US)
DOI10.1177/0010836720920914
OpenAlexW3021070935
IdiomaEN
Citações recebidas7
Referências citadas19

Exchanges of expertise and experience between personnel involved in different peace processes are now a common feature of peacemaking worldwide. However, the goals, methods and impact of such interactions have been subject to little research. This article is the first scholarly analysis of what is here called ‘comparative consultation’. The article begins by conceptualising this work as a unique form of Track Two unofficial diplomacy, sharing the practical format and theoretical grounding of other Track Two approaches but differing in content. The empirical section is based on semi-structured interviews with 16 practitioners – primarily conflict resolution non-governmental organisation personnel and academics – who have facilitated dialogues on peace process topics (such as negotiation, transitional justice, grassroots peacebuilding) between peace process actors at various levels and from many contexts. It also draws on the author’s participation in a series of comparative consultation events. The findings focus on aspects of the organisation, purpose and potential, and limitations and possible risks of the practice. The conclusion sets out a model of the dimensions and potential impacts of comparative consultation and argues for its recognition as a distinct peace methodology. Avenues for further research and practice are outlined

Conflict resolution · Diplomacy · Empirical research · Epistemology · Grassroots · Negotiation · Peacebuilding · Peacemaking · Political science · Process (computing · Public relations · Sociology · Subject (documents · Global Peace and Security Dynamics · Law · Peacebuilding and International Security · Political Conflict and Governance · Public Administration