Israel’s Civil-Military Relations and Security Sector Reform: Lessons for Conflict-Affected Societies

This book challenges the traditional Western models of security sector reform (SSR) in post-conflict societies and advocates for an alternative approach that draws on an unconventional civil-military relations (CMR) model. It suggests that by considering the specific context and cultural background of a state, there is a higher chance of successful SSR. The book provides practical assistance to those working in this area and considers how the unorthodox CMR model can inform post-conflict and conflict-affected SSR programs.

Format: Hardback
Length: 8 pages
Publication date: 13 February 2024
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive book delves into the intricate dynamics of Israel's civil-military relations (CMR) to offer innovative alternatives to conventional Western models of security sector reform (SSR) in post-conflict societies. The author argues that the traditional guidelines of SSR have often been overly influenced by theoretical work in the field of CMR, resulting in a heavy emphasis on Western, liberal democratic models of governance. Consequently, reform programs based on these guidelines, intended for application in post-conflict and conflict-affected states, have achieved mixed results at best.

The book challenges the necessity for this over-reliance on traditional Western liberal democratic solutions and proposes an alternative approach. By adopting an unconventional CMR model that takes into account the specific context and cultural background of the individual state undergoing reform, the author suggests that there is a significantly greater likelihood of success. Through a case study of Israel's CMR, the author aims to provide practical guidance to those engaged in this field and explores how this unorthodox CMR model can be valuable in informing post-conflict and conflict-affected SSR programs.

This book is of immense interest to students of military studies, security studies, Israeli politics, and International Relations. It offers a fresh perspective on the complex interplay between civil and military forces and provides valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities of security sector reform in diverse contexts. By challenging the status quo environments, this book contributes to the ongoing discourse on security sector transformation and promotes a more inclusive and sustainable approach to peacebuilding and conflict resolution.

Weight: 512g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032589145