Economic Development and Post Conflict Reconstruction

Economic development has emerged as a primary aspect of post conflict reconstruction, stabilization, and peace building efforts. However, the tools necessary for economic development in the after math of conflicts differ substantially from those of traditional economic development. Insights need to be generated as to the drivers of economic growth in a post-conflict environment by understanding the economic factors that led to conflict. Policy needs to be sequenced taking into account the short, medium, and long term economic environment. Conflicts are not alike and generic development tools need to be adapted, specifically tailored, and adjusted to the situation at hand. Finally, assessment tools must be developed to create a baseline from which progress and success can be measured and evaluated.

In this book, Jomana Amara discusses the models used to explain economic growth and introduces the economic factors that could potentially lead to conflict, offering insights into the applicability of economic development theories to post conflict reconstruction and presents the economic factors unique to post conflict scenarios. The author also addresses the substantial overlap between the work of the development community, IOs and NGOs, and the security community and their struggle to accommodate each other and redefine their roles. Finally specific case studies are offered covering the spectrum from civil war, occupation, conventional engagements and insurgency in Afghanistan, Iraq, Palestine, Somalia, and Sudan.