Introduction: Conflict Resolution after the Cold War

Abstract

We were teetering on the bridge of a precipice. In my view the other camp had already made its decision. The map showing the dispersal of armed forces over the whole country was explanation enough… In the north, the Warsaw Pact were manouevering their forces. We were warned that martial law might be declared at any moment. We also knew that lists had been drawn up of activists who were under surveillance… It seemed absolutely incredible that those with whom I had been sitting at the negotiating table should have concealed such a scenario from me. Perhaps, within the government, there were other influential groups who thought they would settle accounts clandestinely, in their own way and fast — by force, even with a bloodbath if necessary.

We were not in a position to fight. I trusted in the wisdom of our people. We weren’t armed and we didn’t want to fight. We would simply continue along the path we had chosen.

Lech Walesa, A Path of Hope, pp. 186–7