June 2005
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22 Reads
What is Coalition Building? Coalitions represent temporary alliances and partnering of groups that are focused on similar achievements. They are joined in an effort to achieve a common goal or joint activity. Coalition building mandates that each party (individuals, organizations, or nations) come together to form an effective coalition. By forming a coalition, smaller groups combine with other similar or larger groups, with shared interests and goals. This association facilitates resource combination, and the coalition becomes more powerful and effective than when they each acted unilaterally. Why Coalition Building is Important? The "ability to build coalitions is a basic skill for those who wish to attain and maintain power and influence." By utilization of coalition mechanisms, weaker members/parties to a conflict or potential crisis increase their power and influence. Coalition building is the "primary mechanism through which disempowered parties can develop their power base and thereby better defend their interests." This formation can effectively shift the balance of power and allow weaker members/parties to maintain their presence and power structures and alter conflict conclusions and conditions.