Second Track Citizens' Diplomacy: Concepts and Techniques for Conflict Transformation - Softcover

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0847695522 ISBN 13: 9780847695522

Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield Publishers, 2003

Synopsis

In this volume, prominent contributors explain the development, theory, and current practice of second track diplomacy. They examine the dynamics of modern complex conflicts, such as those in Sri Lanka, Israel/Palestine, Cyprus, and the Caucasus. Exploring innovative problemsolving methodologies, the book provides a detailed program for guiding _partners in conflict_ in the search for common ground and analyzes core issues that arise in the practice and evaluation of second track diplomacy. This book will be valuable to both academics and professionals involved in first or second track diplomacy, or interested in integrative methods of dispute resolution or conflict prevention, as well as to those working in development, peacebuilding or humanitarian programs at any phase of the conflict cycle.

About this title

About the Author

John L. Davies is co-director of the Partners in Conflict Project and senior research associate at the Center for International Development and Conflict Management, University of Maryland. He is a recent Board Member of the Forum on Early Warning and Early Response and consultant to the U.S. governmentOs State Failure Task Force. Edward (Edy) Kaufman is the executive director of the Harry S. Truman Institute for the Advancement of Peace, the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, and senior research associate (and former director) of the Center for International Development and Conflict Management, University of Maryland.

Review

This book makes evident the growing contributions and the potentiality for even greater contributions of nonofficial meetings and exchanges in overcoming destructive conflicts in the contemporary world. The authors are distinguished practitioners and analysts doing significant work in this vital field. (Louis Kriesberg, Syracuse University)

Despite hopes that the twenty-first century would be the age of maturity and peace, events since September 11, 2001, indicate that many political leaders and nonstate actors have been seduced by the power of violence. This book is an excellent antidote to those who think that force is the best or only way of dealing with complex intractable conflicts. It is an excellent guide to the theoretical underpinnings, development, and practical uses of track-two diplomacy. These track-two initiatives play critical roles in the management and transformation of complex conflicts. The book provides scholars and practitioners with a rich resource of theoretical and practical examples of ways in which civil society actors can play more central roles in the delicate art of peacebuilding around the world. I strongly recommend it to anyone seeking more enlightened paths to peace than those currently being pursued in the Middle East and elsewhere. (Kevin P. Clements, Secretary General, International Alert)

In recent years, conflicts, especially in the developing world, have resulted in untold suffering of innocent civilians. Teaching and research in conflict analysis, management, and prevention are especially needed. This book is a very useful addition to the field, for scholars and practitioners alike. It provides a firm foundation in the theories of conflict resolution, as well as practical approaches to peacemaking and peacebuilding. The contributions are from both scholars and professionals with practical experience, and the book should be a 'must-read' for anybody who wants to gain insight into the field or who is interested in its applications to real-life situations. I would strongly recommend the book to anyone interested in conflict management. (Lebohang K. Moleko, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Lesotho to the UN)

Second-track diplomacy is worthy of attention, and so is this book. . . . Scholars and practitioners interested in approaches to peace will find much in it that is useful, some that is thought-provoking. A few, perhaps, will find it an incitement. (H-Net: Humanities and Social Science Reviews Online)

I find this book a valuable resource for those of us teaching, researching, and/or working to transform conflicts both in and outside the so-called Western world. It offers powerful conceptual and theoretical frameworks for conflict analysis, as well as an abundance of practical, proven tools for empowering people to deal with complex, protracted conflicts. The authors, an impressive array featuring a welcome mix of top academic scholarship and hands-on experience, incite us to share the challenge of thinking about conflict management within and across different cultural settings. (Gabrielle Guerón, Universidad Central de Venezuela)

About this edition

• Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield Publishers
• Publication date: 2003
• ISBN 10: 0847695522
• ISBN 13: 9780847695522
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 328
• Editor: Davies John L., Kaufman Edward (Edy)