4. Diplomatic Momentum

Although the parties to a negotiation remain committed to progress, its momentum might falter and even collapse. This chapter examines the methods employed to minimize these risks. The step-by-step approach is one way; another is the circulation of a ‘non-paper’. But most prominence is given here to the following methods: first, the use of deadlines, which might be self-imposed, external, or symbolic, with the Holy Grail being a conjunction of two or more; second, the employment of metaphors of movement, notably those of the train and the automobile; third, publicity, where flying kites and talking up the talks are common tactics; and fourth, raising the level of the talks as a last resort. Among the examples provided is the Good Friday Agreement on Northern Ireland.