Understanding the dynamics of system-of-systems in complex international negotiations

Abstract

This paper explores the intersection between the complex international negotiation processes and the more traditional negotiation modes, emphasizing their strong connection to the issue of the behavioural leadership. The purpose of the study is to demonstrate why the traditional negotiation approaches to complex conflicts have frequently failed in the past, and how the recognition of system-of-systems (SoS) can be helpful to political leaders during the negotiations, from the standpoint of achieving a more sustainable outcome. The concept of leadership style serves as a linking point to determining the dynamics of negotiations and recognition of multiple systems in the study. Specifically, the leaders' personal characteristics - for instance, their personal views with regards to the conflict, level of comfort with ambiguity, physical agility and adaptability in challenging environments - can be crucial to the achievement of successful settlements.