Processes of International Negotiations Conference on Focal Points in Copenhagen

In this era, characterised by multi-party conflicts and renewed geopolitical strife, it is perhaps more important than ever to look at different ways to optimise international negotiation processes. On the 19th and 20th of September, Clingendael’ s Processes of International Negotiations (PIN)-network, together with the Centre for Resolution of International Conflicts (CRIC), organizes a two day conference on one of the rediscovered and promising concepts in international negotiations: Focal Points.

The Copenhagen Conference

This conference features a roadshow where PIN contributors will discuss the latest developments in their respective fields, ranging from the concept of prevention in Negotiations (I. William Zartman) to how power relations affect the process of reconciliation (Mark Anstey). Paul Meerts and Wilbur Perlot will represent the Clingendael Institute with a recently developed simulation on international negotiations.

The conference also entails a workshop on the role of focal points in coordination games, practical aspects of focal points in negotiation and the normative role of focal points. Focal points are formed by simple catch phrases, round numbers, landmarks, and symmetric distribution. Some theorists argue that ‘focal points might also play a normative role in negotiations’. Since all parties agree on them, it can be argued that they embody a peculiar kind of fairness in achieving negotiated agreement. For more information about focal points, please check the latest edition of PINPoints

Roundtable on the Arab Spring

The knowledge and insights provided in these sessions will then be put to practice in an extensive round table discussion on focal points in ‘Arab spring’ negotiations on the 20^th of September. More information on the conference and the program can be found on the CRIC website, and below you can find the program of the conference.