Author Description
Martti Ahtisaari is the world's most renowned and successful mediator in international conflicts. In 2008 he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his lead role in bringing independence to Namibia, Serbia's withdrawal from Kosovo, the decommissioning of weapons in Northern Ireland and autonomy for Aceh in Indonesia. Ahtisaari's range of international contacts and global experience are remarkable and his is the name which is still most often mentioned when the world looks for an individual to try to broker a peace deal.Ahtisaari also served for six years as President of Finland, the first holder of that office to be directly elected. Upon leaving office, he founded Crisis Management Initiative, an international NGO specialising in conflict resolution and development issues. The Mediator is an authorized biography, based on extensive interviews with Ahtisaari himself as well as his family, friends and colleagues.
Menrva's Summary
THE THESIS
This biography investigates the methodologies and diplomatic strategies employed by Martti Ahtisaari to resolve some of the most intractable international conflicts of the late 20th and early 21st centuries. Authors Katri Merikallio and Tapani Ruokanen utilize extensive primary source interviews with Ahtisaari, his family, and his professional associates to construct a comprehensive portrait of his career. The text argues that Ahtisaari's success stems from a unique combination of institutional experience as President of Finland and his independent work through the Crisis Management Initiative.
THE SCOPE MAP
What You Will Find
- Detailed accounts of mediation efforts in Namibia, Kosovo, Northern Ireland, and Aceh.
- An analysis of the transition from national political leadership to global conflict resolution.
- Insights into the founding and operational philosophy of the Crisis Management Initiative.
Scope Limits
- The text focuses primarily on Ahtisaari's public and professional life rather than an exhaustive psychological profile.
- It does not provide a comprehensive history of the conflicts themselves, but rather Ahtisaari's specific role within them.
THE AUTHORITY PERSPECTIVE
Experts and reviewers recognize this work as the definitive authorized account of Ahtisaari's diplomatic career. Readers frequently note that the prose provides a clear, accessible window into the complex mechanics of high-stakes international negotiation.
Page Count:
406
Publication Date:
2015-01-01
Publisher:
Hurst
ISBN-10:
0190613416
ISBN-13:
9780190613419
History
Biography
Peace studies
International relations
Finland
European History
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