What Do We Know about Civil Wars?

Civil wars have replaced interstate wars as the most frequent and deadly form of armed conflict globally, and this book provides an accessible and current overview of the state of the field and an agenda for future research. It also includes an entirely new chapter on pro-government militias and rebels as criminal groups, analysis of new trends in civil war data collection, and new directions in transitional justice institutions, the "resource curse," the role of women, and the relationship between the environment and civil conflict. Examples drawn from the Russia-Ukraine conflict are included.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 438 pages
Publication date: 15 February 2023
Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield

Civil wars have emerged as the predominant form of armed conflict worldwide since World War II, surpassing interstate wars in frequency and lethality. Understanding the factors that contribute to the onset, duration, outcomes, and recurrence of civil wars is crucial for addressing these complex conflicts. In this timely book, esteemed scholars provide students with a comprehensive guide to cutting-edge research on civil wars. They explore various aspects, including the triggers of civil wars, their duration, consequences, and the likelihood of recurrence.

The authors also identify areas of knowledge gaps in the field, highlighting the need for further research. The book adopts a consistent approach across chapters, utilizing a wide range of cases to illustrate how scholars address key questions in conflict and security studies. This authoritative text offers both an accessible and up-to-date overview of the state of the field and provides an agenda for future research.

One notable feature of the book is its comprehensive coverage of pro-government militias and rebels as criminal groups. Chapter 16 delves into the role of these groups in civil wars, examining their motivations, strategies, and the legal and ethical implications of their actions. This chapter adds valuable insights to our understanding of civil conflicts and their broader societal consequences.

The analysis of new trends in civil war data collection is another noteworthy aspect. The authors discuss innovative methods and tools that have enabled researchers to understand geographic and temporal patterns of armed conflict. This information is essential for developing effective strategies for conflict prevention and resolution.

Furthermore, the book explores new directions in transitional justice institutions in post-conflict environments. It examines the challenges and opportunities associated with rebuilding societies after civil wars, including the role of women, the "resource curse," and the relationship between the environment and civil conflict. The authors offer practical insights and recommendations for promoting sustainable peace and development in these contexts.

The book also includes new material on mediation of conflict and peace agreement implementation. It discusses the processes and strategies employed to facilitate peace negotiations and ensure the successful implementation of agreements. The authors provide examples drawn from the Russia-Ukraine conflict, highlighting the complexities and challenges of conflict resolution in complex geopolitical environments.

In conclusion, this book is a valuable resource for students, scholars, and policymakers interested in civil wars. It offers a comprehensive and accessible overview of the field, highlighting cutting-edge research and identifying areas for further exploration. By providing a roadmap for future research and offering practical insights, the book contributes to our understanding of civil conflicts and their potential for resolution.

Weight: 628g
Dimension: 152 x 230 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781538169162
Edition number: Second Edition