Today's increasingly globalized world has created a situation with increased contact and interdependence on the economic, as well as societal and state level. This increased interdependence has in combination with a higher level of acceptance and understanding of the cultural, societal, and value differences between the West and Asia created a demand for knowledge on how to negotiate with the Asians from both the business community and other actors. Such knowledge is important not only for trade with and in the region, but is also essential for the effective management and prevention of regional conflicts.

This project studies similarities and differences in negotiation styles and tactics used in an Asian context. Emphasize is here put on intra-regional differences, and the project confirms the diversity of the Asian region. There are not only distinct differences between the Western way of negotiation and the Asian way, but there are also tremendous differences within the region itself.

The project will not only advance our theoretical knowledge on negotiation in an Asian context, but also put the findings in use. Emphasize is put on transferring our knowledge to the practitioners, both to the business- and the political community as well as others active in the region. This transfer of knowledge will include both awareness and understanding of cultural and value differences relevant to negotiation, and to negotiation strategies and tactics to enhance negotiation effectiveness.

In line with the emphasize on spreading knowledge the center is offering courses on negotiation and mediation both to students and practitioners. Lectures and external workshops are also offered to others interested in advancing their knowledge on negotiation and mediation.

This project is part of the by the Swedish Ministry for Foreign Affairs funded research on Conflict and Security in Asia.