Effective Negotiations: Australia and Saudi Arabia
Introduction
Difference between countries is a common issue, which can cause gaps between neighboring nations. This can also be the cause of some more serious issues like racial discrimination and violence. Considering that each nation has their own original roots, backgrounds, beliefs and practices, all countries then have features that are different and unique. With this fact, people should then consider learning how to appreciate each other’s differences. Rather than use them to set nations apart, each country must exert effort to link themselves to others. One of the purposes of good negotiation practices between nations is the growing globalization trend. It is then essential that countries are able to communicate successfully so as to gain the benefits of global trade.
Australia and Saudi Arabia are two distinct nations. With different cultural practices, beliefs and language, these countries are concrete examples of how two nations can be very different. Despite these differences, both countries can employ various means of communication or negotiation so as to build good relations. This paper will then concentrate on describing the differences of both nations in terms of their religion, political structure, language and culture. Ways on how to address these differences will also be discussed. In particular, means that would promote effective negotiations between Australia and Saudi Arabia will be the central focus of this paper.
Differences of Australia and Saudi Arabia
Conflict may be defined as the perception of personal differences among individuals ( 2001). Other meanings of conflict defined the term as the process of social interaction between struggling parties over beliefs, status, power, resources and other desires or preferences. The goal of the contradicting parties may vary from a simple aim of gaining acceptance to securing a resource advantage; in worst cases, conflicting parties will go even to the point of harming or eliminating their opponents ( 2001).
Conflict can result due to a number of sources; in most literature, types of conflicts are often categorized based on the source or origin. Affective conflict for instance is a type of conflict that arises when two contradicting parties have incompatible emotions or feelings. This is why this type of conflict is also termed as relationship, emotional or psychological conflict. Affective conflict happens when interpersonal clashes are observed between the contradicting parties. Oftentimes, this type of conflict is characterized by frustration and anger. When two or more parties argue over content or task issues, substantive conflicts result. Also known as cognitive, task or issue conflict, this type of conflict occurs when speakers disagree on each other’s opinions or ideas in relation to the task at hand (2001).
Neighboring countries often encounter conflicts due to differing interests. In this type of conflict, two parties realize and understand the problem or issue; however, the solution they intend to use to solve it is different from one another. Ideological conflict or the conflict of values is yet another source of conflict. Basically, this conflict type occurs when two or more social entities have contradicting ideologies over certain matters. Conflict may also occur due to contradicting goals. When social entities have different preferred results or decision outcomes, conflict may also result. A person or group may feel the need to cause conflict so as punish an opponent. This is referred to as retributive conflict. Lastly, conflict may also be considered as displace conflict; this happens when conflicting parties direct their emotional disturbances or negative feelings towards other who are not involved in the issue (2001).
These conflicts are likely to affect good relations and effective negotiation between Australia and Saudi Arabia considering their obvious differences. It is then imperative that both countries must focus on addressing their religious, language and cultural differences. In order to address these, certain actions must be done. Below are some of the factors that could affect the countries’ negotiation efforts as well as ways on these can be resolved.
Religion
Australia is a country that has no state religion or a common established church. The Australian constitution fully implements the people’s freedom of worship. Majority of the population are Christians (68%), which is based on the census for 2001 ( 2006a). Among the Christian population, some consider themselves as Roman Catholics while others as Anglicans. Other Christian denominations also exist in the country (29%), which includes the Protestant church, the Baptist Union, the Uniting Church, the Church of Christ, The Greek Orthodox Church and the Lutheran Church of Australia. Non-Christian religions are also observed in the country but in smaller groups only ( 2006).
Saudi Arabia on the other hand follows a different belief. Unlike Australia, where people can follow any religion, Islam is the only religion officially recognized in Saudi Arabia; other religions are not tolerated publicly. Around 90% of the country’s total population is Muslim Arabs of the Wahhabi sect, a branch of Sunni Islam; the remaining percent on the other hand, is represented by the Shia Muslims and other religions ( 2004).
Religious beliefs play an important role in each country’s culture. Most importantly, it affects a person’s way of life; it also influences one’s thoughts, principles and outlook. Conflict on religious beliefs can then emphasize the negotiators differences, such as in the case of Saudi and Australia. It could affect how they view certain issues and the way they develop possible solutions. As religion could affect these negotiation factors, it is likely that negotiators from Australia and Saudi would stress on different points of view; this in turn makes it difficult to achieve a less complicated settlement.
Language
The official spoken language in Australia is English. However, in some parts of the country, especially in Aboriginal communities, native languages are still used. In addition, most of the first and second generation migrants of Australia are bilingual. Strine or Australian English is the English language form used in the country. The language originated from British origins; however, several factors led to the development of the language. One of these factors was the influx of the immigrants in Australia especially during the first gold rushes.
From then on, Australian English has been a flexible language that borrows words and sounds from external influences. For instance, strine has elements of the North American English; this is due to the increased presence of the American military personnel during the Second World War. The Americanization of the Australians’ English was also brought about by the massive importation of television programs with American content from 1950s up to the present (2006). According to linguists, Australian English can be categorized into three types, which include the broad, general and cultivated. These varieties mainly differ in terms of the accent used. In some cases, understanding these language types can be used to determine the educational background or the social class of the speaker.
The Broad Australian English for example, is the distinctive and most common type. This type of Australian English is recognized by English speakers as this is used by popular Australian characters in non-Australian movies and television shows. The stereotypical Australian English is also known as the general type. This is the Australian English that is used by most Australians; moreover, this language has the accent that is used in modern Australian entertainment. The cultivated version of the Australian English bears some similarities with the language used in Britain. This language however, is only spoken by a few Australians, which is less that ten percent of the population ( 2006).
In Saudi Arabia, Arabic is the official language and spoken by most of the locals. The Arabic language is closely related to the Aramaic and Hebrew languages. This is also the biggest member of the Semitic branch within the language family of the Afro-Asiatic. The Arabic language is widely spoken all over the Arab and Islamic world. Two main Arabic dialects are observed in the country, which include Baharna Arabic and Gulf Arabic. Baharna Arabic is an Arabic dialect used in the eastern provinces of the country, specifically Qatif and other neighboring villages. The Gulf Arabic on the other hand, integrates a number of Persian loan words.
In order to negotiate properly, negotiators must use the appropriate medium. Language stands for one’s cultural background, beliefs and values. In a dispute where differences are emphasized, it is essential that a common ground between conflicting parties is present. The use of a common language for negotiation then enables a more efficient interchange process. By means of language, the message that the negotiator would like to relay is easily received and understood by the receiving party. This then prevent further conflicts from arising. Comprehension of the issue is also ensured through the use of a common language in the negotiation process; as certain languages speaks of ones background, its use in the process can then allow both parties to realize why the issue arose and how this can be resolved.
Disagreements are often caused by personal differences; thus, using a factor that is common between conflicting parties like language can then make the negotiation process easier. In conclusion, language is significant in the process as this supports the achievement of the ultimate goal of negotiation, and that is to reach immediate settlement. Prolonging the dispute or argument is prevented through the use of appropriate languages. Between Saudi and Australia, problems in negotiation can arise due to their different official languages. Without a common medium, the negotiation process take a long time; moreover, it will be difficult for negotiators to understand one another and coordinate for settlement.
People and Culture
Majority of the Australians are of Irish and British decent; most of the people also live in the country’s urbanized regions. Over the years, the population of Australia has grown considerably due to the implementation of the immigration programs after the Second World War. These have also increase the level of cultural diversity in the country. The Australian culture itself is diverse due to the presence of the indigenous groups or the Australian Aborigines, who represent the first inhabitants of the continent. The Australian Aborigines are made up of the Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal people who take about 2.2% of the country’s total population ( 2006). This population percentage however, increased considerably during the 1990s. The Torres Strait Islanders are also known as the Melanesian people and the indigenous group found in the islands of the Torres Strait.
While initially, the indigenous population is typically found in the rural areas, more and more Aborigines are moving on to the urban cities. Although most of them are already in the urbanized areas, traditional ways of life among the Aborigines are still observed. So as to assert the role of the Aborigines in their new communities, each region is represented by an Aboriginal land council; in addition relevant festivals and cultural centers are conducted for the Aborigines (2004).
The people of Australia generally aspire or enjoy middle class lifestyles in the suburbs. In terms of homes, rented accommodations have been in demand due to the reduction of family sizes and the preference of the Australian on sophisticated modes of living. This has been supported further by the efforts of the government to optimize investment on various infrastructures such as water supplies, transportation and other facilities. Fashion in Australia is considerably patterned after Western styles. Most of the clothing designs are lightweight, colorful and casual, suggesting the absence of severe cold weather in the country (2006).
Majority of the people in Saudi Arabia are Arab or Saudi residents, most of them are descendants of the Bedouin tribes. However, similar to Australia, the influx of immigrants created a culturally diverse Saudi Arabia. Immigrants typically come to the country to work; most of them came from Sri Lanka, India, Pakistan and the Philippines. Other cultures came from other Arab countries like Syria, Jordan, Lebanon, Bahrain, Yemen and Egypt. Family holds a strong point in the country’s identity, social status and economy; hence, household sizes tend to be large. Within this context, the division between the roles of men and women is stressed; this is mainly due to the conservative influence of the Islamic religion as well as the people’s local beliefs ( 2006). While the Saudis observed their cultural traditions, they also prohibit other forms of celebration or entertainment. For example, cinemas and public theaters are not allowed and are considered incompatible to the Islamic principles and the Wahabbi tradition.
From this brief comparison, it is clear that Australian and Saudi Arabian cultures are very much in contrast with each other. Specifically, while the people of Australia are diverse and value good living, the Saudis’ culture is again deeply dependent on the principles of Islam. Similar to other factors mentioned, culture and the people’s way of life speak of one’s standards, practices and values. Moreover, culture is something that has developed over passed generations, making an indestructible and distinct feature of a nation. In terms of negotiation, it will then be a challenge to insist on certain issues or resolutions that do not coincide with the other party’s culture or way of life. Again, conflicts of interest can prolong the dispute, directly affecting the process of international negotiation. Differences in culture also make the analysis of issues difficult considering that Australia and Saudi Arabia have different cultural priorities.
Government
The system of government in Australia is a federal parliamentary democracy. In 1901, the Australian constitution, which is patterned after the parliamentary traditions of both British and American system, had been effective. As a member of the Commonwealth of Nations, the country considers the British as its sovereign and head of state. The Australian prime minister on the other hand is in charge of the parliament. The commonwealth’s executive power is entrusted to the governor-general, who serves as the representative of the British sovereign, and a cabinet that is led by the prime minister. The cabinet on the other hand is the representative of the coalition or party in charge of the parliament’s lower house. Authorities that are not covered by the federal government are given to the states (2004).
The government system and practices in Saudi Arabia is very much different from The Australian system as it is centered on religion. Specifically, the Arabian government implements the Islamic law called Sharia for the people to follow. In Australia, religious beliefs are only concentrated on church and faith; however, in Saudi Arabia, Islamic practices also influence other factors including the government, taxation rules, business and law. Saudis as well as foreigners can act as they wish behind closed doors; but in public, they must comply with several strict religious requirements. Some of these laws include the requirement for men and women to dress conservatively, gender segregation as well as mandatory daily prayers among men. In order to ensure that these laws are strictly followed, the government has established an agency called the Committee to prevent vice and promote virtue whose official enforcers are known as mutawwa’in. These official enforcers have the authority to arrest any unrelated females and males who were caught socializing. The officers also have the power to ban consumer media and products like toys, gamed, television shows and Western music. The agency even launched a website where people can feed in information about people doing activities that are not patterned to Islamic principles. Violators of the law can go through harsh and severe punishments like public beating or whipping (2006).
The Saudi Arabian laws are based on Sharia. The Ministry of Justice is the one responsible for operating the Sharia courts with the minister of justice as the chief judge. The summary courts, general courts, the Court of Cassation and the Supreme Council of Justice serve as the country’s main tribunals. It is the duty of the Supreme Council of Justice to manage the activities of the lower courts, express legal views as well as review the legal questions provided by the minister of justice. Furthermore, this tribunal is in charge of reviewing sentences given for serious criminal cases. The punishments for serious crimes can be through amputation or death by means of stoning, hanging and beheading. On the other hand, the Court of Cassation is the one responsible for dealing with questions about penal and personal status suits ( 2006).
In a negotiation, leaders of the country or head negotiators are the ones that participate in the negotiation process. Their beliefs, principles and communication approaches are naturally based on their respective governmental practices. If the Australian negotiators will base its negotiation statements on democracy while the Saudi negotiators depend on the Islamic beliefs, a significant contrast is very evident. It has been mentioned that contrasting beliefs and principles give rise to conflicts, making negotiations difficult or even impossible. Aside from beliefs, that actual laws being implemented in both countries are concrete sources for negotiation difficulties. Compared to the Australian Constitution, Saudi Arabia implements stricter control on people that is based on their religion. If both countries will negotiate about trade for instance, developing laws that would govern this process will be very difficult. In the same way, if both countries will deal about recruiting expatriate workers, labor laws will have to be developed; due to different legal practices and beliefs, negotiating about these laws can be complex.
Bridging the Gap: Negotiation Recommendations
Based from the given features of Australia and Saudi Arabia, major differences can be identified. For instance, in the religious aspect, Australia treats religion as a separate cultural element while Saudi Arabia uses Islamic practices to govern its political, social and economic systems. Having different religious views and principles can then be considered as a cause of gap between these countries. Moreover, the lack of knowledge regarding each other’s valued elements can make communication difficult. Another point of difference is the language used in both nations. While Australia has English as its official language, Saudi Arabians use Arabic dialects for communication. It is essential that a common medium is utilized by speakers from both nations to facilitate effective communication.
There is also an apparent difference between the cultural practices and beliefs of Australia and Saudi Arabia. While the Australian government supports the well-being of the citizens with less restraining laws and standard legislations, the Arabian administration has to ensure that the locals strictly comply with the principles of Islam. In addition, the Saudi Arabian government appears to prefer a different policy in punishing the violators of the Sharia law. The Australians way of life is also very different from the Saudis. In particular, the Australians value a recreational lifestyle.
The Saudis on the other hand, prefer to live a life committed to religion; in addition, their activities are quite limited due to the Islamic principles as compared to the Australian lifestyle. This difference suggests the opposite personalities of the Australians and Saudis. The differences in characteristics or personalities can cause conflicts as well. Naturally, these personalities influence ones views and principles; the absence of a common ground between these countries can again affect negotiation efficacy. Despite these, both Australia and Saudi Arabia can apply various means in order to negotiate effectively as well as overcome their differences.
1. Effective Negotiation Practices
In order to prevent conflict and ensure effective communication between two diverse nations, negotiation procedures or practices must be employed. According to (2004), negotiation can be conducted through four main approaches, which include avoidance, accommodative, integrative and distributive approaches. The accommodating and avoidance approaches of negotiation can be of use for status quo maintenance. The distributive approach on the other hand tends to make the speakers stick to their own positions over the issue; with this approach the negotiators learn and achieve very little progress. On the contrary, integrative negotiation approach enables the speakers to collaborate and develop a shared problem definition. With this approach, transformation of practice as well as learning is promoted.
Seeing that the integrative approach is the most appropriate for addressing the differences between Australia and Saudi Arabia, focus will be given on this approach. (2004) noted that essential tactics and strategies must be observed in employing the integrative negotiation approach. For instance, there should be a free flow of information among the speakers. Openness to the objectives and needs of each individual negotiator must also be observed. It is essential that the negotiators understand their differing agendas.
Rather than emphasize on what makes each negotiator different from another, similarities among the negotiators must be highlighted. It is also important that the process and the negotiation outcome do not favor any particular side; factors affecting the issue or problems must be understood from different angles. This will help ensure that the result of the negotiation process will benefit all participating parties ( 2004 ).
(2004) stated that certain targets must also be observed to support integrative negotiation success. Negotiators for example must develop a common goal or objective. As mentioned, differences tend to cause conflicts and make communication difficult. By means of having a common goal, negotiators will be able to have a clear direction and aim. Having a common objective can also help narrow down issues concerned and concentrate all the efforts of the negotiators towards the achievement of this common objective.
It is also important that the negotiators trust their ability to solve the problem. Having faith in each other’s capabilities make the process easier and more efficient; issues can also be settled with clear and more effective solutions through positive-thinking. As this is a collaborative process, a driving force that will motivate the negotiators should also be present. This can come in the form of the benefits each will acquire upon the resolution of the issue. Through motivation, negotiators will become more committed to the process. Finally, it is important that the negotiators have access to accurate and clear information. This will support effective communication as well as comprehension ( 2004 ).
The negotiation concepts of were supported by (2000); using a methodological framework, explained that a total of seven steps must be done in order to facilitate integrative negotiations. This framework indicates the need to conduct an initial preparation where problems, relations, conflicts and practices are clarified. This step ensures that all negotiating participants understand the full scope of the issue and its affective factors. Moreover, this is a critical step in preventing the rise of conflicts during the negotiation process. Within this methodological framework, fact-finding, achieving agreement, monitoring and assessment procedures are also included.
Before these negotiation approaches had been introduced, methods of addressing differences and conflicts had already been developed. One of these conflict management styles is through compromise where one party would just have to agree to one side of the argument. Postponement or procrastination is another style of conflict management; in this method, action will be done in order to determine the cause of the conflict while the solution to the problem is delayed. Another traditional method of conflict management is avoidance. Here, both the cause and the solution to the conflict are simply avoided.
If these methods will be analyzed, none of these conflict management styles appear to be effective. For one thing, no positive resolution is obtained out of these styles, particularly in postponement and avoidance methodologies. Moreover, the focus is on short-term rather than long-term solutions. In compromise for example, one contradicting side will just have to give in to the argument so as to prevent the conflict from worsening. The postponement technique on the other hand, used the delay factor so as not to prolong the argument. Among other conflict management styles cited, the avoidance strategy is perhaps the most ineffective as there were no effort exerted to resolve the conflict. These conflict management styles are then inappropriate for bridging the gaps between Australia and Saudi Arabia.
(1999) indicated that negotiators must have the confrontation skill in order to handle issues and conflicts. This is because conflicts can be destructive if negotiators will just choose to avoid or ignore them. Others tend to adapt this negotiation style in order to avoid hurting others’ feeling or acting impolite. By means of confrontation, conflicting parties are able to face, analyze and settle the issue; they are allowed to generate views and ideas, which can help achieve clear settlement. Aside from these, confronting rather than avoiding the problem generates the feeling that both sides are willing to resolve the matter by hearing each other out. Face to face interaction also exhibits respect, openness and commitment.
(2003) suggested that conflicts should be managed through the same strategies applied for negotiations. These include lose/lose, win/lose and win/win techniques. In the lose/lose conflict management strategy, neither contradicting party wins the argument. Although either party may have benefited from this strategy as the disagreement is immediately addressed, this style may still not be recommendable since no solution is reached. In the win/lose style, the losing party will likely be hostile to the winning party; this negative feelings in turn prevents the losing party from being cooperative and committed to the given solution. In a sense, there is no actual winner in this conflict management style since cooperation and friendship is not achieved.
The win/win strategy is the most effective conflict management style among the three mentioned negotiation strategies. This is mainly because this strategy leads to the most favorable outcome. The win/win strategy actually has some similarities with integrative negotiation. With this strategy, a solution is developed and all parties involved are satisfied with these solutions (2003). Though the parties may not obtain what they initially intend to achieve, both sides receive at least part of their objectives. As both conflicting parties gained something beneficial out of the disagreement, friendship is established. Furthermore, both are likely to participate in implementing the solution they agreed upon. Although this strategy results to the best outcome, it is the most difficult to apply. Compared to the two other cited styles, the win/win strategy takes the most time, energy and effort. Since both parties would have to benefit in the situation, all possible alternatives would have to be considered.
In the negotiation process, the approach or style to use is not the only key in addressing differences among foreign nations. It is also important that the negotiators themselves are equipped with the right skills and attitude to support effective interaction. For instance, it is essential that the negotiators from Australia and Saudi Arabia have the right communication and listening skills for conflict management. It is important that the representatives must be able to speak up his or her thoughts to others. Without proper communication abilities, negotiators will just feel frustrated and uncommitted every time a conflict arises. Effective communication also observes two-sided conversation; in this aspect, negotiators encourage conflicting parties to raise their views and reasons in line with issue involved. Negotiators should not refrain from hearing the parties’ inputs and just focus on developing the right solutions.
Listening abilities is also important among negotiators; in this case, the representatives should concentrate on what both sides are saying and not on response for each point raised. The aim of having these important skills among negotiators is to ensure that a positive environment is observed despite the conflict ( 2005). The maintenance of a positive environment is not only helpful for developing the right solutions but also in speeding the process of conflict management.
Conflict management also requires the right attitude among negotiators. For example, they must be able to handle their emotions well. Strong negative emotions such as despair, frustration and anger must be managed well so as not to worsen the situation. Through effective emotional management, respect will be exercised among all parties involved. It is essential that speakers do not verbally attack others who are trying to raise certain issues; it is important that negotiators still see to it that good relations are still observed. Rational behavior is also important in conflict management; negotiators should realize that they have to be connected with the parties at all times so as to understand the situation and implement the proper solutions.
By means of these procedures and recommendations, negotiators from Australia and Saudi Arabia will be able to conduct effective interactions; less conflict will also arise between them despite their obvious differences. With these given negotiation approaches, both countries will be able to set their cultural differences aside and realize each other’s commonalities. Following the integrative and win/win negotiation approach can then help both countries address their different religious, political, social and cultural background.
2. Application of Public Relation Principles
Although public relation is more applicable in the international business field, its principles can also be applied in the negotiation process especially in helping countries overcome each other’s differences. Public relations, in general, have three main functions in business ( 1992). One of which is to represent the company within its home market, which would involve dealings with local constituents and the government in line with the relevant issues to its international enterprise. Secondly, public relations serve as a communication channel between the company top management and the foreign management; this function aims to remove the communication gap between both parties. Finally, public relations are utilized to conduct PR activities within the host countries. These functions had then been used by companies not only to promote their products to the public but also to ensure that continuous consumer support will be obtained.
Culture is one of the significant aspects of public relation. According to (1999), culture can be described as patterns of language, values and behavior which determine the relations within a community. It then pertains to a system of learned behavioral patterns that characterized the members of a particular society and not brought about by biological inheritance. Culture is considered an important element of international public relations as the identification of the distinct cultural features of a country allows PR practitioners to develop the right message, use the appropriate communication channel and select the most effective spokesperson to deliver the organization’s message.
This is clearly related to effective negotiation as the process also requires the proper selection of communication means. Moreover, the description of this PR principle clearly emphasizes that in order to reach out to a country with a different cultural background, negotiators must be knowledgeable about various cultures. Understanding the cultural background of the intended foreign market is important so as to ensure that the right message is delivered. Insufficient comprehension of this PR element often leads to embarrassing communication mistakes. In terms of negotiation, knowing the culture of others can then lessen conflicts and reduce cultural gaps between nations. Australian and Saudi negotiators can then ensure successful negotiation by studying and understanding each other’s culture as well as differences.
In the marketing arena, this negotiation factor is commonly known as local responsiveness. The theory of local responsiveness and global integration suggests that the differences of countries in various aspects should be taken seriously. Negotiators should not underestimate the value of local knowledge in international negotiations as this will help them fulfill their international objectives. Negotiators should then tailor their approaches in accordance to the needs of other negotiating parties. Various cultural aspects like religion, education and values should then be considered by negotiators so as to develop immediate settlements and establish good international relations.
3. Language and Education
Although negotiation approaches can effectively address the differences of foreign nations, it is essential that a common mean of communication or medium is used among their negotiators. The consideration of this factor will then address the language barrier between Australia and Saudi Arabia. In the case of both countries, language gap is not really a major issue as English can be used as the communication medium. However, it is important for Australian negotiators to familiarize themselves with the Arabic language. The importance of doing this has been discussed in one online article by (2000) where the author focused the discussion within the Chinese business setting. stated that in order for foreign business entrepreneurs to successfully penetrate the Chinese market, operators must familiarize themselves with the country’s official language. If this will be difficult for the operator, a person who can speak the language would have to be hired. This is not only for the purpose of making communication easier, but this is also an important sign of respect for the Chinese community (2000).
Exerting effort to learn the language is highly recognized by the Chinese entrepreneurs; in addition to the establishment of respect, this could also be a significant tool for building good business relations in China. As the country has a number of different dialects, it is important for the operators to identify the exact Chinese area where the business will be located. Learning to speak Mandarin may be the most practical step as it is the most widely used language in the country (2000). Relating it to the case of the Australian negotiators, being familiar with the Arabic language may not facilitate actual communication but could promote good relations.
In addition to this step, both countries as well as nations in general should consider the integration of foreign language education in schools. Both countries should also enforce bilingual education. This recommendation is applicable especially in Saudi Arabia as this will help students to become fluent and confident English speakers. Bilingual education also has other advantages which could help in addressing differences between nations.
The goals of bilingual education include the development of the individual’s language and communication skills as well as his or her academic performance. Bilingual education aims to help learners develop high proficiency standards in their native and second languages. Further, this education also intends to enhance the student’s academic areas in both languages. The development of values such as the demonstration of positive cross-cultural attitudes and behaviors as well as confidence in communicating other languages, are also part of the goals of bilingual education.
Through successful bilingual programs, the students’ literacy and language proficiency are developed. In turn, this leads the children to successful academic fulfillment and socio-cultural integration. These two factors serve as measurement indicators for bilingual education effectiveness. The degree of development will depend primarily on the program goals. In most instances, the academic achievement of bilingual children is measured through their performance in standardized tests or through their performance of real life activities (2004).
The ability to function in the society and in the heritage community pertains to socio-cultural integration. However, bilingual programs rarely measure this outcome and at times, it is not considered as a measurement of success. So as to measure success, accuracy and fairness in the assessment procedure are essential. The successful performance of the students can be measured directly through the assessment of their literacy, language and content knowledge. The success of the students in language learning is also dependent on the program’s quality, resources, curriculum, assessment practices and personnel (2004).
In some other countries, learning other languages has become a popular trend. Within non-English speaking countries like Taiwan, students are very interested in learning multiple languages. For the past years, learning English has been a common activity in Taiwan. Adults and even young children follow this social trend. In turn, both preschool and kindergarten teachers are expected to give English-related activities to help the children learn the language. Preparatory programs for English teachers have grown and developed as well; relevant training for pre-service and in-service teaching has been incorporated in such programs. With this kind of training, workshops that share English teaching courses or strategies for improving the pre-service and in-service teachers’ English language skills are included (2005).
The people in Taiwan have realized the growing importance of learning other languages like English in order to adapt to business and employment demands. In addition, Taiwan is determined to stay ahead of its Asian neighbors and that being proficient with the English language will greatly contribute to the achievement of this goal. The country’s local administration has in fact realized the role of the English language, especially in strengthening Taiwan’s political and economic position. This interest in learning various languages, especially English, should be enforced in Saudi Arabia and in other non-speaking nations. Not only will this enhance the competence of non-English speakers to present work industry, but this can also facilitate effective negotiations. Being able to speak a common language can prevent miscommunication. This can also enable easier message dissemination. In times of conflicts, matters can easily be settled through common language.
The knowledge about culture and language has long been considered an essential element of successful international negotiations. This has been exemplified by several cases. For instance, in the business sector, the negotiation between a North American-based engine company and a Chinese import corporation has been successful through the cultural sensitivity of the American negotiating team. Specifically, the negotiators aimed to have the ability to close intercultural gaps as well as reach across cultural lines. In order to facilitate the negotiation process, the team ensured that at least one member can understand and speak the Chinese language. Furthermore, some of the members must deeply understand Chinese principles and way of thinking. By means of these important negotiation abilities, misunderstanding due to poor translation, word choice, habits, or mannerisms were easily resolved (1998).
Through this example, it becomes clear that in order to carry out successful international negotiations, knowledge about the other side’s culture is important; this helps the negotiator to plan and communicate effectively during the process. Moreover, having the background about the country’s language can help in making the negotiation process easier; this helps the team to understand the messages relayed accurately. The preparation of the negotiators should involve extensive readings about the country’s customs and history; it will perhaps be helpful also if the negotiating team consults people who had experiences in dealing with the locals of the country in question. Negotiation can easily fail if the country’s cultural component is not fully understood by the negotiators. It is then best to prepare prior to entering any negotiations so as to prevent conflicts with other nations.
In the case of Australia and Saudi Arabia, both countries can negotiate effectively by optimizing their language capabilities. In particular, while there is a language gap between Saudi Arabia and Australia, English is considered an important second language of the Saudis. This language is typically used among non-Arab expatriate communities, in commerce, media and the government. Moreover, some Arabic words use English terms; most of which were derived from European languages. For example, sugar in Arabic is sukkar, magazine is maḫāzin and cotton is quṭūn ( 2006). With this background, language does not seem to be a major issue between Australia and Saudi Arabia. Moreover, as English is commonly used in important and formal events, Arabian negotiators will then find it easy to relay important information or messages. This common language can then be used to facilitate communication and negotiation between both countries.
Conclusion
Australia and Saudi Arabia are two very different nations. While majority of the Australians are Christians, Saudi’s greater population are followers of the Islamic religion. In terms of politics, the Australian constitution is patterned after American and British systems whereas the Saudi Arabian government strictly enforces the Sharia law that is based on the principles of Islam. The official languages of both countries are also different; the Australians speak the English language while the Saudis speak various dialects of the Arabic language. The cultural background of both countries perhaps is the factor that is very different from each other. In Australia for instance, people live a free lifestyle and enjoy outdoor activities. The Saudis on the other hand, live a very conservative and religious lifestyle. In addition, their activities are regulated by Islamic practices. From these features, it is clear that both countries have distinct practices, traditions and background.
These differences however, should not be a hindrance to both countries. It is true that conflicts arise due to differences; nonetheless there are certain ways on how differences can be addressed. In this paper, it has been suggested that both countries should consider the employment of effective negotiation approaches as well as language education. Various authors have cited different styles or approaches of negotiation and conflict management. There are styles where no settlement is achieved while another only favors one side of the issue. Based on its characteristics and outcomes, the integrative or win/win negotiation strategy is the most appropriate to bridge the address the religious and cultural differences between Australia and Saudi Arabia. With the negotiation process, both countries will be able to develop a common goal and optimize their similarities. Good relations, learning and communication will also be observed through this approach.
In addition, negotiators must also be equipped with the necessary skills and attitudes that promote effective negotiation. Specifically, negotiators must be open to the different objectives of the speakers and respect their personal views. The issue should also be analyzed through different angles; negotiators must also ensure that participating members will all benefit from the outcome of the process. Finally, a common language or mean of communication must also be established between negotiating countries. This will prevent miscommunication and ensure effective relations. Preparing students through bilingual education can also teach students to become appreciative rather than discriminative towards different cultures. In conclusion, the key to harmonious relations between different countries is not really on what negotiation process is appropriate; countries in general should rather focus on eliminating discriminatory practices and studying cultures that are different from their own. All nations must that traditions should be recognized and respected; this principle should then apply to their differences as well.
Conclusion
Australia and Saudi Arabia are two very different nations. While majority of the Australians are Christians, Saudi’s greater population are followers of the Islamic religion. In terms of politics, the Australian constitution is patterned after American and British systems whereas the Saudi Arabian government strictly enforces the Sharia law that is based on the principles of Islam. The official languages of both countries are also different; the Australians speak the English language while the Saudis speak various dialects of the Arabic language. The cultural background of both countries perhaps is the factor that is very different from each other. In Australia for instance, people live a free lifestyle and enjoy outdoor activities. The Saudis on the other hand, live a very conservative and religious lifestyle. In addition, their activities are regulated by Islamic practices. From these features, it is clear that both countries have distinct practices, traditions and background.
These differences however, should not be a hindrance to both countries. It is true that conflicts arise due to differences; nonetheless there are certain ways on how differences can be addressed. In this paper, it has been suggested that both countries should consider the employment of effective negotiation approaches as well as language education. Various authors have cited different styles or approaches of negotiation and conflict management. There are styles where no settlement is achieved while another only favors one side of the issue. Based on its characteristics and outcomes, the integrative or win/win negotiation strategy is the most appropriate to bridge the address the religious and cultural differences between Australia and Saudi Arabia. With the negotiation process, both countries will be able to develop a common goal and optimize their similarities. Good relations, learning and communication will also be observed through this approach.
In addition, negotiators must also be equipped with the necessary skills and attitudes that promote effective negotiation. Specifically, negotiators must be open to the different objectives of the speakers and respect their personal views. The issue should also be analyzed through different angles; negotiators must also ensure that participating members will all benefit from the outcome of the process. Finally, a common language or mean of communication must also be established between negotiating countries. This will prevent miscommunication and ensure effective relations. Preparing students through bilingual education can also teach students to become appreciative rather than discriminative towards different cultures. In conclusion, the key to harmonious relations between different countries is not really on what negotiation process is appropriate; countries in general should rather focus on eliminating discriminatory practices and studying cultures that are different from their own. All nations must that traditions should be recognized and respected; this principle should then apply to their differences as well.
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