Pierre Hazan: Negotiating with the Devil, Inside the World of Armed-Conflict Mediation

In this conversation, Adam interviews Pierre Hazan, a mediator with a diverse career spanning journalism, mediation in armed conflict, and academia. Pierre is also an author, recently publishing his latest book, "Negotiating with the Devil, Inside the World of Armed-Conflict Mediation". They discuss the role of mediation in armed conflict situations and the ethical challenges that mediators face. They also explore the importance of inclusivity in mediation and the complexities of determining who should be at the table. Pierre shares insights from his work in various conflict zones and highlights the need for transitional justice and reconciliation in post-conflict societies. The conversation concludes with advice for aspiring mediators.

Key Takeaways:

- Mediation plays a crucial role in armed conflict situations, offering an alternative to military victory and providing a platform for dialogue and negotiation.

- Inclusivity is essential in mediation, but finding the right balance in determining who should be at the table can be challenging.
Ethical considerations are paramount in mediation, particularly in situations where mediators must make difficult choices that may have life-or-death consequences.
Transitional justice and reconciliation are vital in post-conflict societies, requiring a broad definition of justice that includes reparations, truth and reconciliation commissions, and human rights guarantees.
-Mediators must approach each conflict with humility, recognizing their limited impact and the complex dynamics at play.
-Mediation is a constantly evolving field that must adapt to new challenges, such as the role of social media and the involvement of non-state actors like cartels.
-Local mediators often face the greatest risks and challenges in conflict zones, as they may be seen as traitors or spies by their own communities.
-Mediation is not always suitable or successful in every conflict, and mediators must assess the readiness and commitment of the parties involved.
-Starting with local mediation can provide valuable experience and understanding of the social and political dynamics necessary for effective mediation.
-Mediation matters because it offers a path to peace and justice, even in the most complex and challenging conflicts.