Abstract
M.A. (Communication Studies)
Negotiation is at present a key concept in South Africa. It is
also a comprehensive one. This is the motivation for this
study. In South Africa negotiation is not only a relevant subject,
but also a complex one which necessitates further examination.
In this study the subject is reduced by focusing on political
negotiation from a communication perspective.
The dynamics of negotiation and negotiation communication are
examined by means of a literature study. From this, and through
empirical observation, applications concerning the South African
political negotiation process are made.
Perspectives on political negotiation in the South African context
are given as an introduction: the current political situation,
the development of negotiation as choice of policy and
the state of the negotiation process. With this background in
mind the concept. of negotiation and approaches to the study of
the negotiation process are described. Communication is a
key element in this process and its role in negotiation as well
as its relationship with other elements of the process are
analysed. Eventually there is a return to the South African
political context with the demonstration of the dynamic role of
communication in negotiation in this context. Through this an
attempt is made to give explanations for political negotiation
communication in South Africa and on this basis guidelines about
the subject are suggested.
By emphasizing the importance of communication in political negotiation
in South Africa and by highlighting essentials in this
dynamics, an attempt is made to provide a contribution to the
understanding of the complex, but relevant subject of negotiation
in South Africa.