William Ury

William Ury is a leading authority on negotiation and conflict resolution, recognized globally for his groundbreaking work in transforming adversarial interactions into collaborative agreements. His most influential contribution is co-authoring Getting to Yes, a foundational text that introduced the principles of principled negotiation to millions worldwide. This book, along with his subsequent works, emphasizes a framework for achieving durable agreements by focusing on interests, options, criteria, and a BATNA (Best Alternative to a Negotiated Agreement). Ury's approach consistently seeks to bridge divides and find mutually beneficial solutions, making him a pivotal figure in the field of negotiation strategy.

Beyond Getting to Yes, Ury has authored several other influential books, including The Third Side, which explores the crucial role of bystanders in conflict resolution, and Breakthrough: The Art of Making Deals in the Middle East, demonstrating his practical application of negotiation principles in complex geopolitical settings. His work extends to high-stakes diplomatic negotiations, where he has advised governments and international organizations. Ury's overarching theme is the possibility of reaching agreement even in the face of seemingly intractable differences, advocating for a systematic, humane, and effective approach to conflict resolution that benefits individuals, organizations, and societies alike.