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Intermediaries of Intervention: How Local Power Brokers Shape External Peace- and State-Building in Afghanistan and Congo.

Authors :
Münch, Philipp
Veit, Alex
Source :
International Peacekeeping (13533312); Apr2018, Vol. 25 Issue 2, p266-292, 27p
Publication Year :
2018

Abstract

Why do international peace- and state-building interventions regularly fail to transform conflict-ridden countries into liberal states? This paper argues that interventionists’ practices and dependency on local intermediaries help explain the disappointing outcomes of intervention. Based on a relational theoretical approach and original empirical material, the paper compares two of the largest peace- and state-building interventions in recent years. For practical and normative reasons, peacebuilders need to find local partners who help them instil change. However, as partners of peace- and state-building interventions, local elites may appropriate international resources and use them to strengthen their own positions. Interventionists abstain from sanctioning such appropriation as long as their own short-term and purpose-oriented goals are not undermined. Contrary to assumptions in much of the literature, interventionists do not eagerly defend their alleged liberal agendas. Instead, their pragmatism strengthens existing neo-patrimonial figurations rather than fostering fundamental transformation. The paper argues that research should focus on peacebuilders’ actual practices rather than normative statements. Such an approach allows for a better understanding of evolving political orders in conflict societies. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Subjects

Subjects :
NATION building

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
13533312
Volume :
25
Issue :
2
Database :
Complementary Index
Journal :
International Peacekeeping (13533312)
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
128182378
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1080/13533312.2017.1411808