Routledge Local and Global Dynamics of Peacebuilding: Postconflict reconstruction in Sierra Leone (Studies in Conflict, Development and Peacebuilding)

Local and Global Dynamics of Peacebuilding examines the complex contributing factors which led to war and state collapse in Sierra Leone, and the international peacebuilding and statebuilding operations which followed the cessation of the violence. This book presents nuanced and contextually specific knowledge of Sierra Leone’s political and war histories, and the outcomes of the implementation of programmes of post-conflict reforms. It embodies an analysis of the complex challenges involved in aligning international norms and values to local expectations and local priorities, and examines the role of local and global actors and structures in attempts to build a strong state and lasting peace. Using a theoretical framework informed by ‘liberal peace’ philosophy, as well as detailed and nuanced empirical evidence from the field, the book constructs a critical analysis of the contemporary global paradigm for building longer-term peace in war-torn, fractured and fragile societies. This book will be of much interest to students of peacebuilding, war and conflict studies, development studies, African politics, and IR/security studies. Review 'This book offers a unique, in-depth case study into the realities confronting post-conflict reconstruction plans, especially for how local priorities are often undermined through various processes including: externally determined values and policies, a lack of local and external capacity and an insufficient understanding of local and national capabilities. Even though it is a country-specific examination of the application of the liberal peace process, the book does offer lessons to be learnt for other cases of post-conflict reconstruction, such as seeing opportunities to reform institutions not usually covered by the liberal peace project, in particular the judicial system. Local and Global Dynamics of Peacebuilding is a recommended read for researchers and students in post-liberal peace-making, peace and conflict studies as well as practitioners in relevant and related international organisations.' - Simon Taylor, in E-International Relations About the Author Christine Cubitt has a PhD in International Politics from the University of Bradford, UK.