Past Experience and Methods of Territorial Dispute Resolution

44 Pages Posted: 13 Aug 2009 Last revised: 30 Sep 2009

Date Written: 2009

Abstract

Does past win/loss record impact states’ subsequent choices of peaceful dispute resolution methods? We present a theory that portrays peaceful resolution of disputes as an effect of strategic forum shopping. During the process of decision making, each state strategically chooses between several forums; its final choice of a method is strongly based on the state’s past experience with this particular method. Empirical analysis of all attempts at peaceful resolution of territorial disputes from 1945-2003 shows that states use their record of victories and failures as an indicator of the probability of winning in a subsequent dispute. In general however, the link between past experience and choice of a resolution method follows different patterns for challenger and target states. For example, past win/loss record matters most for the challenger states that want to repeatedly resort to binding methods of peaceful resolution – arbitration and adjudication. Target states, on the other hand, place greatest trust in their experience with nonbinding third party methods.

Suggested Citation

Wiegand, Krista E. and Powell, Emilia J., Past Experience and Methods of Territorial Dispute Resolution (2009). APSA 2009 Toronto Meeting Paper, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=1450555

Krista E. Wiegand (Contact Author)

University of Tennessee ( email )

Howard Baker Center for Public Policy
1640 Cumberland Ave.
Knoxville, TN 37996
United States
9129740969 (Phone)

HOME PAGE: http://www.kristawiegand.com

Emilia J. Powell

University of Notre Dame ( email )

217 O'Shaugnessy Hall
Notre Dame, IN 46556-5646
United States