Parties, Politics, Peace: Electoral Inclusion as Peacebuilding

This book explores the role of armed opposition groups turned political parties in shaping long-term patterns of politics after war, finding that engaging them in electoral politics has been a viable strategy for bringing political stability. It will be of interest to scholars, students, and practitioners in democracy, governance, elections, political parties, post-conflict peacebuilding, and international relations.

Format: Hardback
Length: 210 pages
Publication date: 29 June 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This groundbreaking work delves into the significant, often overlooked role of armed opposition groups that transition into political parties in shaping long-term political dynamics after conflicts. Drawing from an extensive retrospective analysis spanning nearly 30 years of post-conflict democratic state-building endeavors, the book explores whether this practice has fostered peace and concludes that engaging post-rebel parties in electoral politics has proven to be a viable long-term strategy for establishing political stability. It reveals that disparate post-rebel parties, regardless of their political contexts, invest heavily in electoral politics, and that few post-rebel parties actively pursue a return to civil conflict as a solution once they become political parties.

This book holds immense value for scholars, students, and practitioners in the fields of democracy, governance, elections, political parties, post-conflict peacebuilding, and international relations, comparative politics, and regional politics. Its insights shed light on the complex dynamics and strategies employed by these groups, contributing to a deeper understanding of the factors that contribute to post-conflict stability and democratic development.

The findings presented in this book challenge prevailing narratives and provide valuable insights into the complex interplay between armed opposition groups, political parties, and the broader political landscape. By examining the experiences of countries such as Colombia, Sierra Leone, and Nepal, the book offers practical recommendations for policymakers, peacebuilders, and civil society organizations working in post-conflict contexts. It emphasizes the importance of inclusive political processes, the need for transitional justice, and the significance of engaging with former rebels in order to promote long-term peace and stability.

In conclusion, this groundbreaking book offers a fresh perspective on the role of armed opposition groups in post-conflict politics, challenging conventional wisdom and providing valuable insights into the complex dynamics of democratic state-building. It is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the challenges and opportunities of building peace and democracy in the aftermath of conflict.

Weight: 570g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032318936