I am an intern at the Peacekeeping and Stability Operations Institute (PKSOI) at the Army War College. It’s been really interesting so far, especially since I’ve been assigned to a really complex project. I’m working on a proposal for a new model for Reconstruction and Stability operations (basically trying to find a way for the military to help rebuild nations after conflict). In my research, I have come across quite a few case studies of operations in the Middle East. I am basing my recommendation on the Provincial Reconstruction Teams (PRT) in Afghanistan. The PRTs aim to combine both civilian and military staff and to extend the authority of the government, promote and enhance security and facilitate humanitarian relief and reconstruction operations. If you’d like to learn more about the PRTs, I suggest you look at this report: http://pdf.usaid.gov/pdf_docs/PNADG252.pdf
There is a lot of opposition to much of the United States' involvement in other countries but I feel like the United States has a responsibility as a world power to help democratize and stabilize volatile nations. By spreading democracy through nation-building, the US is helping to foster a new and improved world system.
Before anything else, must say, that internship sounds really interesting- nicely done! haha... the linked document also looks like an interesting read, so thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteThe only other thought I figured I'd note here is on the question of democratization, as you've noted in the last paragraph - always a good debate. Logically, a large part of the argument behind encouraging democratization is the democratic peace theory... which is in itself on the debatable side. Also might note that democratizing and stabilizing volatile nations are not particularly synonymous - as I'm sure you know, the process of democratization is a rather ugly one, and in fact results in a situation that is quite far from stable. Then, of course, as the very base of the word suggests, democracy requires a public interested in that democracy - citizen support and involvement... and US involvement in democratization requires US interest in that country's becoming democratic (noting, for instance, our class discussion re. Jordan or Saudi Arabia). Always intriguing stuff, democracy.
(oh, right, and not to mention, of course, one of the man arguments against nation building- the question of problem solving on the home front before diverting attention and resources elsewhere)
But... the end result of democracy provides is stabilizing, not just between states (which supports the democratic peace theory) but also within states as democracies provide the best opportunity for human rights.
ReplyDeleteOf course your right in the sense that democracies work best with citizen involvement. But US involvement in other countries shouldn't be viewed as empire or some colonial attempt to control others. Our country history doesn't match those of France and Britain (sorry Professor Webb). America is a force for good in the world, however imperfect we are and we shouldn't be afraid of promoting our exceptionalism and spreading democracy which provides the best and greatest hope for peace, prosperity and human rights for all.