The Ripeness Theory (I. Xxxxxxx Xxxxxxx) At relatively early stages of the conflict what were the first attempts for a solution? Why did they fail and why the Good Friday Agreement was successful? This study will try to identify the reasons behind. Moreover, it will also examine the factors that made it possible for the peace process to pick up, and make the analysis of this phase through the perspective of the Ripeness Theory (Xxxxxxx, 2000). Xxxxxxx argues that there are essentially two approaches to the study and practice of negotiation with or without mediation. One asserts that the substance of the proposals is the key for a successful resolution of the conflict. Parties to the conflict reach an acceptable agreement for both more or less at the midpoint between their positions. The other one maintains that the key for a successful resolution lies in the timing of efforts for resolution. Parties resolve the conflict when they are ready to do so, when alternative means of achieving a satisfactory result are blocked. This school maintains that substantive answers are fruitless until the moment is ripe (ibid, pp. 225-226). However, analysing substance is also valuable because although timing is important for the start of the negotiations, along the process substance becomes essential for continuation of negotiations toward a successful conclusion. The idea of a right moment is something that diplomats are expected to feel and sense correctly. Xxxxx Xxxxxxxxx himself recognized that “stalemate is the most propitious condition for settlement” (ibid, p. 227). Close examination of the meaning and dynamics of ripeness exposes that ripeness is only a condition. It is not self-fulfilling or self-implementing. It must be seized either by the parties themselves or through the persuasion of a mediator. However, not all negotiations might be the result of a ripe moment. This could be a tactical move by a party to the conflict for different reasons. Moreover, ripeness theory is not predictive, that is, it cannot tell when a ripe moment will appear in a given situation. However, it is predictive in identifying the elements necessary for the productive start of negotiations (ibid, pp. 227-228). What are the components of Ripeness? The concept of a right moment focuses on the perception of the parties of a mutually hurting stalemate (MHS). This perception might be associated with an impending, past or recently avoided catastrophe (precipice). In other words, when the parties find themselves lo...
