Who are the mediators in international mediation? Where do they come from, why do they take up assignments, and what are their mandates? Isak Svensson and Peter Wallensteen – leading experts in mediation and conflict resolution – focus on the experiences of mediators and their mandates in Nordic countries, primarily Sweden, Norway and Finland. They explore why these countries are popular for this type of work, what their assets and shortcomings are, and how smaller countries can generate support for their efforts. Furthermore, they develop the 'Mediation Staircase' to assess achievements of mediation as a way to more effectively evaluate mediation with different types of mandates. The Peacemaking Mandate uses the Nordic experiences to provide valuable lessons for contemporary armed conflicts, wars and peace processes, which are becoming ever more important in times of turbulence across the world.

‘As we expand our knowledge about the practice and concepts of negotiations (to which Wallensteen and Svensson have already contributed much), we find subfields of focus that call for deeper digging. The mediator's mandate is one such topic, and the two authors are extremely well qualified to throw light on it. They develop the internal dynamics of mandating and the basic importance it holds for successful third party intervention. A truly fine work and a testimony to the authors' expertise.'

William Zartman - Jacob Blaustein Distinguished Professor Emeritus of International Organization and Conflict Resolution, The Johns Hopkins University School of Advanced International Studies

‘Essential reading for scholars, students and peacemakers interested in the dynamics and outcomes of international mediation. By using mediation mandates as their organizing concept, Svensson and Wallensteen provide a more realistic picture than many other accounts of mediation. Rigorous and lively, this book makes an invaluable contribution to the field.'

LaurieMay Nathan - Professor of the Practice of Mediation, Kroc Institute for International Peace Studies, University of Notre Dame

‘An excellent history and analysis of Nordic mediation: the variety of case studies and depth of research into the mediator's experience and perspective make for interesting and lively reading. At a time when mediation is changing and the environment for mediation is becoming harder, the lessons from the extensive Nordic experience are not only helpful but also a reminder that mediation can work.'

Pamela Aall - Institute of World Affairs and Co-editor, Diplomacy and the Future of World Order

‘This timely book examines the pivotal role of mandates in shaping mediation outcomes, drawing on detailed case analyses of Nordic mediation efforts. With valuable insights and practical guidance, it is an essential read for practitioners and scholars looking to deepen their understanding and improve the effectiveness of mediation practices globally.'

Govinda Clayton - Mediation Support Manager, Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue