Jean Monnet Dialogues for Peace and Democracy: A Comparative Analysis of European Parliament's Soft Diplomacy in Politically Divided Societies

This paper delves into the significance and impact of the Jean Monnet Dialogues for Peace and Democracy, an initiative spearheaded by the European Parliament. Launched in October 2016 at the historic residence of Jean Monnet in France, these dialogues function as a soft tool for parliamentary mediation and dialogue, aiming to enhance political leaders' capacity for inter-party discourse, consensus-building, and the cultivation of a democratic parliamentary culture. Unlike traditional single-issue conferences, the dialogues employ a comprehensive approach, including preparatory consultations, in-camera meetings, and follow-ups. Guided by nine rules of engagement, the dialogues emphasise principles such as equal engagement, consensus-building, and confidentiality until tangible outcomes are achieved. Rooted in Jean Monnet's house and strategically distanced from the political and media spotlight, the dialogues encourage leaders to focus on consensus-building, institutional reforms, and pivotal policies. The Jean Monnet Dialogue methodology has been applied with varying success in diverse countries, including Ukraine and North Macedonia. In Ukraine, the dialogue addresses a range of issues, from opposition status to committee structure reform and anti-corruption measures, while in North Macedonia, it plays a crucial role in the European Union's support for the country's membership process, covering topics such as parliamentary elections and consensus-building reforms. Additionally, the European Parliament has extended the reach of the Jean Monnet Dialogue to Serbia, focusing on inter-party dialogue within the National Assembly. This paper explores the mechanisms employed by the European Parliament to achieve consensus in politically divided societies, offering comparative insights between candidates and negotiating countries with the EU and identifying successful mediation practices. While underscoring the European Parliament's commitment to fostering democratic values, constructive dialogue, and consensus-building, the paper assesses how this diplomatic instrument contributes to advancing democratic principles and strengthening parliamentary systems in developing democracies.