In this episode, we explore how negotiation can serve as a powerful tool for advancing sustainability goals across various contexts, from environmental and social to economic issues. We discuss the evolving role of negotiation theory, emphasizing the need for socially responsible approaches that include long-term impacts and the interests of all stakeholders, even those not directly involved in the negotiation. Drawing on interdisciplinary perspectives, we highlight how negotiation can creatively address complex challenges, mitigate conflict, and create sustainable value for communities and businesses alike.
Our guest, Brian Ganson, brings extensive expertise in this field. He is a professor and the Head of the Centre on Conflict and Collaboration at Stellenbosch Business School, where he leads research on the nexus of business, conflict, and development. With roles at the Peace Research Institute Oslo (PRIO) and Stellenbosch University’s Faculty of Law, Brian offers a unique blend of practical and academic insight. His vast experience includes consulting for leaders in post-conflict societies and developing strategies for sustainable business practices in volatile environments.
This episode dives into how negotiation practices could, unintentionally, perpetuate social or environmental harm, even when both parties’ interests are met. We discuss practical challenges negotiators face when trying to incorporate sustainability into their strategies, such as balancing short-term outcomes with long-term societal impact.
Our conversation covers the potential for evolving negotiation theory and practice to better include sustainability and social responsibility. We explore what a modernized approach might look like and the crucial role of educators in preparing the next generation of negotiators to make environmentally and socially responsible decisions.
If you are interested in the sustainability and socially responsible negotiation and would like to contribute to the special issue of the Negotiation Journal devoted to this topic, please have a look at our call for papers and reach out to one of the editors for further guidance.
All episodes of our Podcast on Negotiation, can be found as video on our Youtube channel, and as audio on all major podcast services under the following links:
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