Rock Paper Scissors Diplomacy (RPSD) is a concept that emerged in the early 21st century. The idea was simple – to use the game of RPS as a tool for building bridges between countries and resolving conflicts on an international level. The game is played in many countries, with variations to the rules, but the fundamental concept is the same.
RPSD has been used to great effect in various conferences and meetings between nations where formal negotiations have failed to produce any results. The game has proved to be an excellent ice-breaker that helps reduce tensions and creates a relaxed atmosphere for further discussion. The game also encourages players to think outside the box, as they have to anticipate their opponent’s move while choosing their own.
At international conferences, RPDS has been used to determine who gets to host an event, who speaks first, and other minor decisions. The most famous instance of RPDS being credited with successfully settling a diplomatic tussle came in 2005, when the prime ministers of Japan and South Korea used it to settle a dispute over which country should host the 2002 FIFA World Cup. The two countries played the game, and South Korea emerged victorious, leading to Japan agreeing to drop its claim to host the soccer tournament.
RPDS’s potential to diffuse conflicts is not limited to international diplomacy alone. It has also been used to prevent gang fights, reduce office tensions, and prevent schoolyard bullying. The game teaches players to make quick decisions and to accept defeat gracefully, qualities that could help resolve many interpersonal conflicts.
In 2012, a group of activists known as “The World RPS Society” held a tournament in Toronto, which attracted participants from 600 different schools, countries, and organizations worldwide. The tournament’s main aim was to raise awareness about the positive impact that RPDS could have on promoting peace and cooperation between nations.
In conclusion, RPDS is a simple yet effective tool for diplomacy and conflict resolution. It has the potential to bring people from different backgrounds and cultures together and encourage them to think creatively and communicate effectively. While it may seem like a little game, it holds immense power in promoting peace and cooperation on an international level. We can celebrate its potential to bring countries together one game at a time.[ad_2]