The Military Role in Reconciliation
Major Terrence H. Buckeye, School of Advanced Military Studies (2010). URL: https://apps.dtic.mil/sti/tr/pdf/ADA522693.pdf
This extensive monograph investigates how reconciliation is perceived by the military as well as to what extent the military is and should be involved in reconciliation, with US stability operations being the primary focus of study. The understanding of reconciliation by the US government is found to be ambiguous, with recommendations for an improved definition to provide clarity on how the military fits into this process. The author criticises the role of the military as “armed reconcilers”, forcing a society to reconcile. Instead, the military’s role is in securitisation and stabilisation, and is only effective in facilitating, not forcing, reconciliation between groups. Organisations that work with local communities and utilise local practises are best placed to take the lead on reconciliation process. In conclusion, the extent of military involvement in peace operations should not include an active reconciliation role.