Culture in the Mediation of International Disputes

Unlike most treatments of culture in international diplomacy, this article suggests that culture can play a positive role in the mediation of international disputes. Cultural ties between the mediator and one or both of the disputants can facilitate mediation by, among other things, enhancing the mediator's acceptability to the parties, and enhancing the belief that the mediator can deliver concessions and agreements. Moreover, a mediator who is closer to one side than the other can be effective in mediation, especially when the mediator acts in an even‐handed manner. Data from laboratory research on mediation, as well as anecdotal evidence, support this view.