Mano River Basin: An Evaluation of Negotiation and Mediation Techniques

Abstract

This paper interrogates the negotiation and mediation techniques that was used following aggression, violence and social disruptions in Mano River basin, particularly against the recent return to democracy in the region. While peace has largely been restored, the scattered but continuing incidence of aggression, violence and social disruptions in the Basin has raised questions about the viability of negotiation and mediation techniques. The success or failure of these techniques has effect on the sustainability of State, individual and social structures in the region. Therefore, the paper argues that enough attention has not been paid to the ethical, moral and historical dimensions of the problem of negotiation and mediation, especially the role of traditional institutions and civil society agencies as critical components in con lict resolution. Given this, the paper draws attention to some of the gaps and challenges embedded in ‘imported’ negotiation and mediation techniques that leverage the certi ication of con licts in Africa as being “ethnic and racial”. Using secondary data and drawing on personal experiences in the Mano River Basin (MRB) countries in West Africa, the paper also raises critical questions about the relationship between negotiation and mediation techniques and con lict resolution and the lessons learned so far. It also suggests ways of addressing those aspects of negotiation and mediation techniques de icits as a basis for suggesting options that will likely reduce recourse to con licts, encourage dialogue and inclusive participation, as well as increase the chances for peace in the region and Africa.