The long-run effects of communication as a conflict resolution mechanism

The paper studies an experimental conflict in a repeated game and tests the robustness of communication as an intermediate conflict resolution instrument. The results show a strong and persistent impact of communication. Most conflict parties refrain from conflict expenditures even after the opportunity for communication has expired. Third party involvement with punishment options does not enhance this effect while contesting one prize rather than multiple prizes reduces it. Conflict resolution is less successful even in the long term if initial conflict intensity is rather high.