For a Dynamic Approach to Stabilization. Issue 5 (19th October 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Mielke, Katja; Mutschler, Max; Meininghaus, Esther
• Is Part Of: International peacekeeping. Volume 27:Issue 5(2020)
• Page Start: 810
• Page End: 835
• Publication Date: 2020-10-19
• Subjects: Stabilization -- order -- peacekeeping -- SSR -- migration -- Mali; International police -- Periodicals; Peacekeeping forces -- Periodicals; 327.172
• DOI: 10.1080/13533312.2020.1733424
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1353-3312

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Stabilization is a contestable concept of intervention in violent conflicts. Often, it is either uncritically supported or rejected. In this article, we criticize current conceptualisations and practices of stabilization and newly introduce a dynamic approach for stabilization that yields a transformative potential. By distinguishing static vs. dynamic approaches to stabilization, we address the widespread dilemma that so-called stabilization measures seem unable to avoid instability and protracted violence in the long-term. Our analysis of the three policy fields peacekeeping, train & equip programmes and migration management in Mali reveals the dominance of static elements in stabilization practice. Instead, our article proposes to see a transformative variant of stabilization measures that enhances long-term security and development. We argue that there are two dynamic approaches of stabilization that policy-makers and practitioners can apply in (post-)conflict societies: state-centred liberal peacebuilding that takes its normative core seriously, and non-state centric peacebuilding that acknowledges alternative lived orders.