How Wars End: Theory and Practice

This book explores the complexities of war termination, drawing on firsthand experiences from soldiers and academics who have advised on combat and peace processes. It examines why wars start, what sustains them, the role of external intervention, the conditions for ending wars, and the modalities for creating peace. It is relevant to students of military, strategic, and security studies, peace studies, and International Relations.

Format: Hardback
Length: 296 pages
Publication date: 27 December 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive book delves into one of the most crucial aspects of international relations: the resolution of conflicts. Drawing upon the firsthand experiences of soldiers and academics who have served as advisers on warfare and peace-building, the volume offers a unique perspective on the complex dynamics of war termination. Unlike theoretical works, the book relies on detailed case studies, encompassing conflicts such as those in Iraq, Afghanistan, Sierra Leone, and Indonesia, among others.

The book is organized around a series of themes, each of which plays a pivotal role in understanding the cessation of hostilities. The first theme explores the origins and causes of wars, emphasizing the importance of understanding these factors in order to devise effective strategies for ending conflicts. The second theme examines the factors that sustain wars, highlighting the challenges inherent in their termination. By understanding the factors that perpetuate wars, policymakers and peacebuilders can develop targeted interventions to address these underlying issues.

The third theme examines the role of external intervention in ending wars. This includes the involvement of belligerent parties, peacekeeping forces, and mediators in facilitating peace negotiations and brokering agreements. The book explores the various approaches and strategies employed by these actors, as well as the ethical considerations and limitations associated with their involvement.

The fourth theme addresses the issue of "ripeness" and the right conditions for ending wars. It examines the factors that contribute to a conflict's readiness for resolution, such as the level of violence, the political will of the parties involved, and the presence of external factors that may hinder or facilitate peace-building efforts. The fifth theme focuses on the modalities for ending wars and creating peace. This includes discussions on negotiation, mediation, and military intervention, as well as the role of transitional processes and institutions in fostering long-term stability.

The sixth and final theme examines the challenges and opportunities associated with transitions to peace. It explores the processes and mechanisms required to consolidate peace, including the establishment of democratic institutions, the rehabilitation of war-affected communities, and the promotion of social and economic development. The book also addresses the role of international cooperation and support in facilitating these transitions, as well as the potential risks and obstacles that may arise during the process.

This book is of immense interest to students of military, strategic, and security studies, peace studies, and International Relations. It provides a comprehensive and insightful analysis of the complex dynamics of war termination, offering valuable insights and practical strategies for policymakers, peacebuilders, and scholars alike.

Weight: 707g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032329512