Understanding the Transition: A Challenge and Opportunity for Mediators

This article outlines key issue areas for negotiators and mediators of transition processes, with a particular view to a future transition in Syria. Drawing on examples from Egypt, Libya, Tunisia, and other countries, the article considers a range of questions, such as who should supervise the transition, and the pace and sequence of transition. The article also discusses the possible content of a transition agreement, including a timebound road map, decision-making and deadlock breaking mechanisms, statements of common principles, setting out the composition of constitution-making bodies, transitional frameworks for governance and development, and provision for security and transitional justice.