The customer is always right: the policy research arena in international mediation

Abstract

Abstract This article examines the influence of research on international mediation. It refutes claims that mediation research has not influenced policy and practice. On the contrary, it shows that the United Nations, the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) and other policy-makers are not only receptive to mediation research but proactively commission and disseminate research. The article argues that the mediation policy research arena resembles an oligopsony, which is an imperfect competitive market with a small number of important buyers and a large number of sellers. Consequently, transaction power lies with the policymakers, and the policy research arena is geared to meeting their preferences. They have a utilitarian preference for problem-solving research that enhances the effectiveness of mediation. They have a methodological preference for comparative case-studies that include interviews with mediators, and do not regard quantitative analysis as useful. In terms of transmission processes, they favour commissioned research tailored to meet their needs. They expect commissioned research to conform to their norms, serve a specified purpose, reflect a deep understanding of mediation, and make proposals that are functionally sound, politically appropriate and financially viable. The bottom line for mediation researchers is that they are most likely to influence policy and practice if they meet the knowledge requirements of the intended recipients of their research.