Attitude-Based Negotiations for Resolving Water and Environmental Conflicts

Abstract

A negotiation methodology for resolving water/environmental conflicts is presented to manage growing complex disputes over water particularly in regions with growing water scarcity. A unique feature of the proposed methodology is taking into account the attitudes of disputants, which is an important human factor, particularly in resolving complex water/environmental disputes. Graph model for conflict resolution (GMCR) is employed to develop the methodology and to help disputants determine the best strategic resolution, given the negotiators' competing interests, needs, and attitudes. The results of this research helps to assess whether or not unwanted consequences can occur in a particular conflict because of improper attitudes, as well as ascertain what attitudes are needed to guide water/environmental conflicts to win/win outcomes for the involved parties. This research may help to develop tools that are required by decision makers to tackle current world water disputes, and prevent development of regional/global water conflicts. Last but not least, appropriate management of water and environmental conflicts can save enormous amounts of time, costs, and resources.