Partial agreements

Julián Arévalo and Andrés García Trujillo

Chapter 22 in Handbook on the Politics of International Agreements, 2026, pp 339-355 from Edward Elgar Publishing

Abstract: This chapter examines the potential and limits of partial agreements as mechanisms for managing complexity in contexts of peace and political crisis. Drawing on negotiation theory and empirical cases—particularly the Colombian peace process (2012–2016) and Venezuela's political dialogue (2021–2024)—it identifies three analytical dimensions: the attributes of the issues under discussion, the configuration of the parties, and the dynamics of negotiation and institutionalization of practices. The authors argue that partial agreements can foster trust, momentum, and incremental transformation when issues are properly sequenced and isolated, and when institutional mechanisms sustain continued dialogue. However, they may also reproduce conflict dynamics, empower spoilers, or stall broader settlements if poorly designed or implemented. The comparative analysis underscores that the effectiveness of partial agreements depends less on their format than on contextual sensitivity, issue interdependence, and the parties’ capacity to transform negotiation practices into enduring institutions.

Keywords: Partial Agreements; Peace Negotiations; Conflict Transformation; Negotiation Process Design; Colombia; Venezuela (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2026
ISBN: 9781035318582
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