Inverse Approach to the Graph Model for Conflict Resolution

Abstract

Systems methodologies to model third-party intervention in international conflicts are developed within the framework of the graph model for conflict resolution (GMCR). An inverse GMCR is introduced to utilize the GMCR as a negotiation tool by altering the procedure of the original framework. The methodologies presented give a better understanding of how decision makers (DMs) can be motivated to undertake certain actions within the conflict. Moreover, the inverse GMCR tackles the problem of specifying which preferences for DMs lead to a particular resolution, thereby making it easier for a mediator or other third party to influence the course of the conflict. The methodologies are applied to a real-world dispute, a complex water conflict in the Middle East.

Analysis of a brownfield management conflict in Canada

“…Conflict analysis techniques can support decision-makers as they seek outcomes that are more preferred by all parties. One option is found in a recent extension to GMCR, the Inverse Approach to the Graph Model of Conflict Resolution (Kinsara et al, 2015b), which facilitates identifying preferences a target decision-maker should adopt to reach a specified outcome. This information can be used to motivate decision-makers to take preferable actions to work towards mutually beneficial outcomes (Kinsara et al, 2015b).…”

“…Beginning in 1992, Citizen Advisory Groups were formed by the Provincial and Municipal governments to provide public oversight and input into the full spectrum of UR activities in Elmira (Baetz and Tanguay, 1998;Township of Woolwich, 2013, 2015b. Participatory processes ultimately failed to build trust between the stakeholders, and the citizen advisory groups have since been restructured several times throughout the conflict (Baetz and Tanguay, 1998;Township of Woolwich, 2015a).…”

“…The decision support system, GMCR+ (Kinsara et al, 2015a), used for the modeling and analysis, provides advanced analytical functions including stability analysis, sensitivity analysis, coalition analysis, inverse GMCR, and visualization functions (Kinsara et al, 2015a(Kinsara et al, , 2015b.…”

Communication features in a DSS for conflict resolution based on the graph model

“…The inverse solver is devoted to inverse GMCR, a new development. It attempts to give users, who may include analysts and mediators, insightful information about how a specific resolution might come about (Kinsara et al, 2015b). Finally, the goal seeker solver is a tool that specifies multiple states by combining goals or options, informing the analyst whether and how the goal can be achieved.…”

An Improved Graph Model for Conflict Resolution Based on Option Prioritization and Its Application

“…With respect to coalition analysis, Kilgour et al depicted the fundamental definitions of coalition analysis in detail, and illustrated the procedure in GMCR II with a simple model [16]. Kinsara and Kilgour introduced third-party intervention to GMCR and constructed inverse GMCR to measure how third parties influence the process of conflict [17]. Kinsara and Hipel preferred three approaches to improve and simplify the understanding of conflict results [18].…”