'Legitimacy is the Main Objective': Legitimation in Population-Centric Counterinsurgency. (3rd September 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Kitzen, Martijn
• Is Part Of: Small wars & insurgencies. Volume 28:Number 4/5(2017)
• Page Start: 853
• Page End: 866
• Publication Date: 2017-09-03
• Subjects: Collaboration -- counterinsurgency -- legitimacy -- (cultural) legitimation; Low-intensity conflicts (Military science) -- Periodicals; Insurgency -- Periodicals; 355.021805
• DOI: 10.1080/09592318.2017.1322331
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0959-2318

Abstract

Abstract: This article seeks to contribute to the understanding of the role of legitimacy and different forms of legitimation in population-centric counterinsurgency. An analysis of the logic underlying this counterinsurgency concept sheds a light on the former as it identifies legitimacy as the crucial mechanism through which a collaboration strategy seeks to obtain control over the local population. An exploration of Weber's primary types of legitimate authorities provides the insight that counterinsurgents might operationalize legitimation through either rational-legal ways or by co-opting local power-holders who hold a position as traditional or charismatic leaders. The exact choice of strategy depends on the pattern of legitimacy in the target society and therefore so-called cultural legitimation is pivotal.