The Future of the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty

This negotiation exercise exposes students to the highest stakes international negotiation and the implications of a global power shift, with a new, multipolar world order beginning to replace U.S. global hegemony. 

Scenario

Signed in 1987 between the United States and the USSR, the INF Treaty forms a key part of the global non-proliferation architecture. Relations between these two powers, however, have deteriorated after years of both sides accusing the other of violating the Treaty. This negotiation brings together a delegation from the Russian Federation (four negotiators), a delegation from the United States (four negotiators), and representatives from the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE).

Teaching Points

  • Exposes negotiators to the highest stakes international negotiation and the implications of a global power shift, with a new, multipolar world order beginning to replace U.S. global hegemony. 
  • Gain a better understanding of the history of strategic stability from the end of the Cold War until today through their learning about the INF Treaty.
  • Manage cognitive overload and negotiator’s fatigue to work collectively to construct a sustainable deal.

Teaching Materials

Participant Packet 

  • Role Matrix: Overview of all participants and role assignments 
  • Meeting Schedule: Details the locations and meetings within the scenario
  • General Information: Scenario Background
  • Character Sheets: Confidential background information for each role

Instructor Packet 

  • Teaching Guide: Provides the instructor with an overview of the scenario, exercise logistics, teaching points, and debriefing notes
  • Soft copy of suggested introductory and debrief powerpoint slides
  • All Participant documents except the Character Sheets

Master Packet (add on)

  • One spare copy of all Participant and Instructor documents (not including soft copy of Powerpoint slides)

Exercise Specifications

Format: In person or Online
Time Required for Exercise: 6.25 hours
Number of participants: 10-16
Negotiating parties (teams): 4
Scorable: No
Prior Knowledge of Topic: Highly Recommended
Language: English