Interrogating Different Modes of GCC Conflict Mediation

Author: Courtney Freer

Key Findings

• Not all Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states act similarly in the conflict mediation field: some tend to focus on local issues, while others solely become involved in mediation at the multilateral and global level.
• As demonstrated by recent Emirati and Saudi actions, the Gulf states will likely continue to be active in conflict mediation outside of the Middle East in particular, given the perceived withdrawal of the UK and US from the region.
• The GCC states have in many ways viewed each other as competitors in the conflict mediation area in recent years. There is now a real opportunity to help to foster greater intra-regional cooperation.

The Global Transitions Series looks at fragmentations in the global order and how these impact peace and transition settlements. It explores why and how different third-party actors – state, intergovernmental, and non-governmental – intervene in conflicts, and how they see themselves contributing to reduction of conflict and risks of conflict relapse. The series critically assesses the growth and diversification of global and regional responses to contemporary conflicts. It also asks how local actors are navigating this multiplicity of mediators and peacebuilders and how this is shaping conflict outcomes and post-conflict governance.