ABSTRACT
This introduction presents a key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book presents the fine research and current scholarship on mediation and conflict management. It focuses on systemic change and explores the changing context of international conflict and the different kinds of disputes and shifting constellation of warring interests that mediators are forced to contend with. The book examines the nature and dynamics of conflicts that have resisted resolution over a number of years, posing the question whether so-called "intractable conflicts" require different kinds of mediation strategies and tactics. It describes several areas of significant change in terms of third-party engagement that bring new dynamics to conflict resolution and may be harbingers for how we will attempt to resolve conflict in future. The book discusses elements of planning for mediation, creating a strategy, assembling the components and developing the sources of persuasion necessary to encourage parties to turn away from violence to secure their political goals.
