This working paper develops a framework to analyze the circumstances under which non-state armed groups recognize a conflict as negotiable. The concept of negotiability disaggregates ripeness theory to focus on the perspective of one party. For negotiability to be given, a critical mass within the group must perceive a negotiated solution as desirable, legitimate and achievable. Rather than a single and linear decision, the transformation towards negotiability is an evolving and potentially reversible process involving the participation of different actors within a group.