Publications
Articles, publications, books, tools and multimedia features from the U.S. Institute of Peace provide the latest news, analysis, research findings, practitioner guides and reports, all related to the conflict zones and issues that are at the center of the Institute’s work to prevent and reduce violent conflict.
2002–2003 National Winner
Kevin Kiley Granite Bay High School Granite Bay, California Coordinator: Ms. Rita Prichard War causes harm; of this there is no doubt. In determining the justification of war, the question hence becomes: when is it justified to cause harm? The only morally acceptable answer is that causing harm is justified if it prevents further harm. Thus, in general terms, the only justifiable reason to go to war is to minimize harm—if war is the lesser of two evils. Underlying the issue of just and u...
The Road Ahead: Lessons in Nation Building from Japan, Germany, and Afghanistan for Postwar Iraq
With the war in Iraq has come the responsibility to win the peace. In military campaigns, enormous resources may be marshaled at a moment's notice, including professionally trained soldiers supported by the latest technology and an intricate and elaborate global infrastructure specifically designed to fight and win wars.
Reconciliation in the Asia-Pacific
In this remarkably timely volume, Yoichi Funabashi, one of Japan's most influential journalists, and seven authors from throughout the Asia-Pacific shine the spotlight on the prospects for reconciliation in the region.
Post-War Iraq: The Immediate Imperatives
As the situation in Iraq moves into the post-war phase, what needs to be done right away to stabilize the country, and who needs to do it?
Rebuilding Societies After Conflict
This guide from the 2003 National Peace Essay Contest assists teachers in increasing students' understanding of post-conflict reconstruction and ability to analyze the post-conflict reconstruction process in both historic and contemporary conflicts.
Colombia: Trip Report on Armed Conflict and Society
A Current Issues Briefing Co-sponsored by the U.S. Institute of Peace and the Washington Office on Latin America. Featured remarks from Congressman James P. McGovern (D-Massachusetts).
Healing the Holy Land: Interreligious Peacebuilding in Israel/Palestine
This publication documents faith-based efforts by Muslim, Jewish, and Christians to achieve a just peace in the Arab/Israeli conflict. The publication argues forcefully that religious leaders and interests must be engaged in the peace process in order to assure a sustainable, inclusive, and comprehensive settlement. The report includes the perspectives of clergy, lay, facilitators of inter-faith dialogue, religious educators, and participants in the historic Alexandria Summit in January 2002,...
Sudan: U.S. Supported Peace Negotiations Bearing Fruit
Examines the Sudan peace process and the continued need for U.S. engagement in Africa.
Unfinished Business in Afghanistan: Warlordism, Reconstruction, and Ethnic Harmony
Summary In comparison to the quick and successful U.S. military campaign to oust the Taliban, the political task of creating a stable and secure democratic state in Afghanistan is proving much more difficult. There are some hopeful signs since January 2003 with sections of President Hamid Karzai's government apparatus becoming more functional. But the central government continues to be severely hampered in the absence of adequate funds, security structures, and infrastructure.
Establishing the Rule of Law in Iraq
Summary In Iraq, the immediate post-war period is likely to be difficult, confusing, and dangerous. Based on the experience of previous peace operations, the U.S.-led coalition's most important objective should be establishing the rule of law. The Fourth Geneva Convention makes this an obligation for the U.S. military administration. It will also be necessary to ensure that post-conflict reconciliation and reconstruction go forward successfully. Saddam Hussein exercised power in Ira...