Peace talks are a key element in resolving conflict. But, they are difficult to succeed at and, even when agreements are reached, they don’t always last.
Peace negotiations are typically aimed at reaching a comprehensive agreement on all of the elements that comprise a just and lasting settlement, including a jus post bellum or legal framework for the period after armed conflict. The success of a peace treaty is based on the ability to overcome entrenched positions and achieve a compromise that satisfies both parties. Often, a peace process is initiated by the Security Council, the body with primary responsibility for peace and security in the world (see PSRP infographic).
The success of a peace negotiation depends on how well the process is managed. The most important factor is to bring the parties together and get them on board with the process, particularly in the early stages when expectations of a successful outcome are low. A second factor is to ensure that the right mix of negotiators is present. This includes women, whose participation has been crucial to achieving a number of successful peace processes, from Colombia to the Middle East.
The third factor is to understand the context in which peace negotiations take place. For example, in the Middle East, the latest round of peace talks was set up only after the Syrian regime drove out rebels from Aleppo. This was a victory that strengthened the hand of President Bashar al-Assad and his allies and so raised the stakes for the next round of peace negotiations.
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