Suchergebnisse

ABSTRACT: This study falls under the scope of the recent debate around UN peacekeeping transitions and exit strategies and highlights a critical gap in understanding the design and conceptualization of these strategies, especially for the long run as post-conflict societies consolidate peace. Using Liberia and Sierra Leone as case studies, the research aims to remedy the empirical gap and shed light on the complexities of framing UN transitions and exit strategies. A central argument posited in this study is that effective management of the entanglement between peacekeeping and peacebuilding is pivotal for enduring success in transition processes. Key contextual elements influencing this management include early planning and initiation of peacebuilding, coordination and integration with local actors, and alignment of benchmarks and needs with all stakeholders before concluding missions. The study applies a social constructivist perspective to examine the different trajectories both Liberia and Sierra Leone have taken in managing their transitions. This article uses qualitative research methods with data drawn from primary and secondary sources .

Quantitative research evaluating the effect of peacekeeping operations usually links conflict abatement to the number of casualties in order to measure mission success. Such an approach is incomplete as security concerns extend far beyond the number of conflict related deaths. This narrow understanding of mission success leaves a significant assessment gap. Therefore this study is the first which presents comprehensive data using a wider understanding of violence and peace. We apply 11 indicators measuring security comprehensively. These range from the number of battle death, to violence against civilians, domestic unrest as well as domestic governance and political stability. In contrast to the mainstream quantitative literature our analysis shows that conflict often persists even with the deployment of peacekeepers. The absence of war (decline of battle death) does not automatically equate for non-violence and peace. In order to explain variation between cases we are also exploring the significance of different peacekeeping types, the size of developmental aid, rents from natural resources and the role of governance on conflict.