From Civil War to Red Bulls

Overcoming Negotiation Deadlocks in South Sudan

Abstract

The following reflection from just over a decade ago (2013-2014) seeks to outline the unique and challenging situation of a negotiation involving multiple parties – precipitated by the unauthorized landing of a large cargo plane and detention of pilots and crew – in what remains the world’s newest country, South Sudan. Not only did this negotiation occur in the context of an ongoing civil war, but also in a remote, rural location which hosted a large, international organization, featuring hundreds of staff, patients, families, troops and military leaders. All of this led to a complex mix of procedural and cultural intricacies, which led to some difficulties but ultimately provided further opportunities to work towards a mutually beneficial outcome.