Mediating Conflict in Central America

Abstract

The Esquipulas peace process in Central America is examined as process, structure and context. It is found to be an innovative effort in regional conflict resolution. The study focuses on how mediation has been used in conflict management within Nicaragua. Trust- or confianza-based mediation has assumed special importance in the Nicaraguan case. The emphasis on the confianza relationship in Central American societies produces a type of mediator known as the insider-partial, who emerges from within the conflict situation itself. It differs markedly from the outsider-neutral third party common to post-industrial society. Its legitimacy and effectiveness come from the continuing personal connection of the mediator with the conflict parties before, during and after the intervention. The conflict between the Sandinista government and Atlantic Coast Indian leaders is analyzed to illustrate the use of confianza-based mediation and its effectiveness when combined with intervention by outsider-neutrals. The authors recommend a broadening of the concept of mediation to include intervention by insider-partials. Their continuity within and knowledge of the conflict situation effectively complement the outsider-neutrals' objectivity and lack of connection with conflictants. Mediator teams should be carefully selected to include both types, particularly for interventions in the developing world. It is recommended, additionally, that mediators attend more to modifying the mediation context to render it more supportive of their interventions. The authors conclude that Esquipulas represents a rich store of mediation experience for conflict research.

Carbon Neutral by 2021: The Past and Present of Costa Rica’s Unusual Political Tradition

“…In February 1987, Arias proposed what became known as the "Arias Peace Plan", which recognized all governments of Central America and called for the abatement of support to rebel groups, including the contras in Nicaragua [15] (pp. [42][43]. Following the 1979 overthrow of the Somoza dictatorship by the Sandinistas, Nicaragua became a "revolutionary socialist state" [15] (p. 5).…”

“…Following the 1979 overthrow of the Somoza dictatorship by the Sandinistas, Nicaragua became a "revolutionary socialist state" [15] (p. 5). The Contra-Sandinista conflict raged both before and after the signing of the peace treaty in Nicaragua [43]. El Salvador experienced a civil war and several military dictatorships.…”

“…According to Wehr and Lederach [43], Arias and the presidents of Guatemala (Vinicio Cerezo) and Nicaragua (Daniel Ortega) helped make the peace process a reality. Arias oversaw the event and mediated the countries' involvement, Cerezo agreed to host the treaty-signing event and lobbied for Nicaragua's inclusion, and Ortega made "important concessions" in the process [43] (p. 90).…”

“…Arias oversaw the event and mediated the countries' involvement, Cerezo agreed to host the treaty-signing event and lobbied for Nicaragua's inclusion, and Ortega made "important concessions" in the process [43] (p. 90). Despite five presidents' involvement and the key leadership of three of them, Arias was the only one to be awarded the 1987 Nobel Peace Prize.…”

Mediation in Conflict Systems

“…For example, they may carry out go-between activities. They usually are not recognized as mediators but may be referred to as quasi mediators or insider-partial mediators (Wehr and Lederach 1991;Kriesberg 1995). Nevertheless, they frequently convey information from the adversary back to their own side.…”