Degree Name

MA in Conflict Transformation

First Advisor

Paula Green

Abstract

Since the end of the Cold War, Western military forces have found themselves increasingly responding to complex emergencies and humanitarian crises around the world. These experiences have redefined military roles and deepened the way in which commanders view and respond to inter-ethnic conflict. In Kosovo, the unprecedented “humanitarian” intervention, and actions in the decade since, exemplify these changes and demonstrate the non-traditional roles and progressive strategies employed by NATO forces in efforts to assist development and build sustainable peace. Yet despite having similar roles and objectives, a wealth of resources and knowledge to be shared – there is minimal dialogue, collaboration or cooperation between military and humanitarian actors in Kosovo.

This Capstone Paper reviews an applied research project which intervenes in the conflict between military-humanitarian actors in Kosovo. The goal of the intervention is to provide the historical context, define patterns and present issues of an organization which is inherently secretive, difficult for “outsiders” to communicate with, and struggling to adapt strategies to an evolving view of the complexities of inter-ethnic conflict. The major product actively addresses the context, systems, and structures which support the ongoing conflict between actors and provides direct recommendations for (re)building lines of communication. It also makes an attempt to transform the attitudes and beliefs of all stakeholders by humanizing conflict parties, rationalizing behaviors, and encouraging stakeholders to enter into constructive dialogue centered on actual issues and patterns.

Disciplines

Military and Veterans Studies | Peace and Conflict Studies | Policy Design, Analysis, and Evaluation | Politics and Social Change

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