The widespread practice of external intervention aimed at building 'sustainable peace' within societies ravaged by war and violence has been a striking feature of the post-Cold War era. This book examines the record of such interventions, from Cambodia in the early 1990s to efforts in Afghanistan and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

About the Author

Mats Berdal is Professor of Security and Development at King's College London

Reviews

'In work after analytical work Mats Berdal has trained his sharp, inquiring gaze on numerous aspects of the work for peace with a keen understanding of what is desirable and what is possible. I cannot think of anyone better suited to shine a light on the experience of peacebuilding efforts since the 1990s. He has raised fundamental questions which the international community should heed.' Alvaro de Soto, former Under-Secretary General, United Nations 'In this cogent, concise and incisive study, Mats Berdal persuasively argues that post-conflict reconstruction must be based on an understanding of local political structures that have been shaped - but not obliterated - by war. I cannot think of a better guide to the treacherous terrain of international peacebuilding' Professor David Keen, London School of Economics 'Berdal's description of the peace-building environment is detailed and compelling.' Dr John Mackinlay, RUSI Journal April/May 2010, 100 'The most illuminating part of his book is his thorough examination of not only the initial causes of violence in war-torn societies, but also the myriad ways that intervening forces create conditions and form alliances that strengthen local warlords and trigger an expansion of violent crime, especially trafficking in drugs, arms and human beings' - International Peacekeeping, 18: 1, 2011, 123