(Lunch Conversation) Negotiation in War’s Midst: An Account From the Field

DATE: Thursday, February 6, 2025

TIME: 12:45 p.m.–1:45 p.m.
Lunch will be provided to those who register.

PLACE:
Boardroom (W204)

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At some point during a war, bitter adversaries will eventually begin talks to resolve (or at least manage) their conflict, often through a mediator who faces acute practical and ethical dilemmas. These dilemmas may pose questions such as: Should mediators avoid engaging with a party that has carried out war crimes, even if doing so would save lives? Should they forego efforts to attain justice for victims of armed conflict if it could bring about a fragile peace?

In this lunchtime talk, Pierre Hazan—a prominent figure in conflict mediation and transitional justice who played significant roles in back-channel mediation in Bosnia, Ukraine, the Sahel, and the Central African Republic—will share insights from his recent book, Negotiating with the Devil: Inside the World of Armed Conflict Mediation (Hurst Publishers, 2024). He will also provide insider reflections on the political and ethical “red lines” that shape talks with armed interlocutors, including states and insurgents.

Lecture Chair:
Ruti G. Teitel, Ernst C. Stiefel Professor of Comparative Law at New York Law School; Director, Center for International Law and the Institute for Global Law, Justice, and Policy; and author of Humanity’s Law (Oxford University Press, 2011).

This event is for the NYLS community only. Outside visitors will not be admitted.