Contemporary Military Reserves: Between the Civilian and Military Worlds

This book offers a comparative study of military reserves in contemporary democracies, highlighting their dual management of civilian and military careers, different family dynamics, diverse motivations, and commitment to the armed forces. It suggests two frames to understand these differences: transmigrants traveling between the military and civilian worlds and multiple informal contracts and negotiations. It will be of interest to students of military and strategic studies, civil-military relations, sociology, and International Relations.

Format: Hardback
Length: 212 pages
Publication date: 30 December 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive book delves into a comparative analysis of military reserves in contemporary democracies, exploring the intricate dynamics and evolving roles of these reserve forces within the armed forces. Over the past three decades, a convergence of budgetary pressures, new missions, and emerging military roles has prompted democracies to reevaluate their training and utilization of reserve forces. Recognizing the significance of reservists in achieving total or comprehensive defense, these forces have become an integral part of military operations. However, a scholarly bias towards studying regulars and conscripts has resulted in a limited focus on reservists and reserve soldiers. This volume aims to rectify this gap by presenting a series of country studies that examine the unique characteristics and challenges of reservist service.

Unlike regulars and conscripts, reservists navigate a complex terrain of dual management of civilian and military careers, distinct family dynamics, diverse motivations, and unwavering commitment to the armed forces. Additionally, they are offered a range of material and non-material incentives, shaping their participation and loyalty. Furthermore, reservists occupy a unique position in the political sphere, often balancing their military responsibilities with their civilian lives. To understand these distinctions, the book proposes two frames: firstly, viewing reservists as transmigrants traversing between the military and civilian worlds, and secondly, analyzing the intricate web of informal contracts and negotiations that bind them to the military.

Each chapter in the volume adopts these conceptualizations, providing a cohesive and integrative framework that enhances the reader's understanding of reservist service. This book is of immense interest to students of military and strategic studies, civil-military relations, sociology, and International Relations. It offers valuable insights into the evolving nature of reserve forces, their contributions to national security, and the challenges they face in balancing military and civilian commitments. By examining these diverse aspects, the book contributes to a broader understanding of the role of reserve forces in contemporary democracies and their potential for future development.

Weight: 580g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032307206