Gestures of Conciliation: Factors Contributing to Successful Olive Branches

by Christopher Mitchell

This book examines the ideas, assumptions, and theories that underpin how leaders of parties in intractable conflicts begin and sustain a process of peacemaking by offering to their adversaries "olive branches"--in more modern terms symbolic gestures, concessions, tension reducing moves, or confidence building measures. It discusses means of overcoming political and psychological barriers to accurate communication, building trust, forming domestic consensus, and creating "ripe" conditions for conciliation, suggesting practice guidelines for accommodation.

333 pages, Hardcover

First published November 28, 1995

About the author

Christopher Mitchell is Drucie French-Cumbie Professor of Conflict Analysis and Resolution at George Mason University.