We can't offer a fool-proof solution to these deep-rooted conflicts in various parts of the world, but we can identify a fairly common theme: withholding information. Without knowing all the facts, one side assumes the other is wrong--leading to bad outcomes. Just look at what happened in Ferguson, MO when the police officer's name wasn't released for three days.

On a much-smaller scale, we've worked with several clients whose previous failures stemmed from their reluctance to reveal key information. As a result, their negotiating partners were annoyed, sometimes bringing the negotiation to a deadlock (see Tutorial: Break the Deadlock). This delayed the time needed to reach an agreement, costing both sides.

So always give the other side the information it needs to negotiate. And let's hope that the powers throughout the world can find a way--through better negotiating and maybe a bit more compassion for human lives--to stop senseless tragedies.