Leiden University Student Repository

Polat, Elif Nisa (2018)

Great Power Intervention in Peace Processes: American Involvement in Northern Ireland and Cyprus

Master thesis | International Relations (MA)

This thesis identifies the methods that have been successful in managing ethnopolitical conflicts by focusing on two cases in the European periphery. Conflict management and mediation literature consists of extensive work on both Cyprus and Northern Ireland. Yet, the role of external actors and kin-states in peacemaking in both cases are understudied. By showing the importance of a superpower third party intervention, this thesis provides theoretical and policy insights on conflict management. Contrary to the general argument on the importance of impartiality of mediation, this study argues that powerful states, due to their coercive capacity and power, have an increased chance of success in peace negotiations. Furthermore, regardless of impartiality, it is found that the more proximity (cultural, political, and economic ties) the third party has with the parties involved, the more likely it is to have the leverage necessary to achieve a concession.

Conflict Resolution

Mediation

Northern Ireland

Cyprus

Author

Polat, Elif Nisa

Faculty

Faculty of Humanities

Specialisation

Global Conflict in the Modern Era

Supervisors

Cusumano, Eugenio

ECTS Credits

15

Language

en