International Online Training Program On Intractable Conflict

Conflict Research Consortium, University of Colorado, USA

Good Timing--Identifying "Ripe" Times for Negotiations

The timing of negotiations is often critical to their success. Conflict scholars and negotiators often use the concept of "ripeness," comparing negotiation to fruit. If a fruit is picked too early, it will not be ready for eating; however, if it is picked to late, it will be inedible as well. Negotiation works the same way. Conflicts must develop to a point before negotiation is possible, yet, if that "ripe moment" is missed, the conflict may not be open for negotiation again for quite a while.

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[from colorado.edu]