ABSTRACT
This chapter explores strategies that ensure successful negotiations from the transboundary water diplomacy practitioner. I define ground rules as a set of tools that assist in managing the process of negotiation from the start of the negotiations to the conclusion thereof. It is essential to note that these ground rules are applicable also to those parties that are still struggling to come to the table. Furthermore, the chapter discusses what I perceive as the cornerstone of negotiations – preparation, procedures, and essential skills required to successfully conclude the negotiations. These ground rules have always been in my go-to toolbox, successfully negotiating with labor in my previous life and later in water diplomacy, specifically during negotiations for the Lesotho Highlands Water Project (LHWP) Phase II Agreement, the Lesotho Energy Memorandum of Understanding, and other subsequent agreements. It is essential to note that the ground rules addressed here are generic even though this chapter is addressed for water diplomacy negotiators from a water diplomacy practitioner’s perspective. These ground rules are divided into four categories: Personal Preparation – Understanding the Mandate, Establishing Reporting Lines, Budget; Planning – Team Selection, Accurate Data, Choosing Negotiations’ Secretary; Negotiations Proceedings – Commencement of negotiations, Agenda, Code of Conduct, Communication, Joint Reporting; and Negotiation Procedures – Confidentiality, Signing off on minutes, resolutions, and agreements, Recess from negotiations, Transparency and Good Faith.
