Giving Spoilers the Space : How Transparency Efforts Doomed the Trans-Atlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (ttip)

Abstract

The Trans-Atlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (ttip) underwent three years of negotiations by the EU and US, both experienced and capable negotiators, yet the negotiations failed, raising questions. This article delves into the factors that caused ttip’s demise by examining the negotiation structure, the impact of secrecy versus transparency, and the disruptive influence of spoilers. The change in negotiation structure caused a cascading effect, enabling disruptive actors to flourish, and causing the negotiators to switch from an integrative negotiation strategy into a distributive strategy. To enhance the chances of success and avoid similar pitfalls, this article presents recommendations: (1) maintaining a consistent negotiation structure, (2) coordinating any structural changes with the negotiation partner, (3) expanding the agreement’s scope to garner more internal political support, and (4) establishing political backing before commencing negotiations. By addressing these issues, future negotiations can mitigate risks and improve their chances of achieving desired outcomes.