International law and diplomacy is a rapidly evolving field that depends on the brokering of agreements between nations, often with the involvement of international organizations and other stakeholders, including representatives from affected industries and major non-governmental organizations. The relative lack of clear legal precedents and the difficulties of enforcement mean that most decisions are reached via global agreements rather than decided by courts.

Negotiators engaged in global treaty-making can be more effective representatives of their countries or organizations if they adopt best practices. The Clearinghouse offers a variety of resources to help negotiators hone their skills. These include role-play exercises, books, and case studies revolving around various issues, from resolving armed conflicts to setting global environmental standards. In the Arms Control on Cobia exercise, neighboring countries in an arms race meet to see if they can negotiate a ban to a new weapon. Managing Conflict in the Former Soviet Union: Russian and American Perspectives introduces readers to various ethnic conflicts in former Soviet republics and the competing visions on how they can be resolved.