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their respective interests, needs, and values. They will do this by correcting
misunderstandings and reframing conflicts, making use of correct information in order
to limit escalation. In this way the destructive nature of the conflict turns into a
constructive one.
The last element is the combination of the use of force or threats, with
negotiation and integrative approaches. Negotiation and integrative strategies used on
their own do go some way towards achieving the goals. When used with some force or
threat, they achieve more than force threats used alone. This is because threats used
alone tend to elicit escalation or backlash while negotiation or integrative strategies
cannot have an effect on non-negotiable items. Therefore, the use ofthe three strategies
combined leads to progress.
ALTERNATIVE DISPUTE RESOLUTION (ADR)
Alternative dispute resolution is one method that can be used in intractable
conflict i.e. conflict that is not capable ofresolution because ofvalue differences which
may be ethical, political, or sociological. One benefit of alternative dispute resolution
(ADR) is its privacy as opposed to the public nature of intractable conflicts. Here
adversaries need to publicise their requirements, interests, and positions. ADR also
makes it possible to take a final decision on a matter as in arbitration. This is when a
third party makes a decision, which settles the matter. The arbitrator goes home and the
parties remain. Or the parties go home after the matter has been settled. Ifthe former is
the case then there is a problem.
ADR can get people talking and exchange information on their needs, wants and
priorities. During times ofwar people dehumanise the enemy and thus justify the use of
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