Analyzing disarmament in post conflict peacebuilding: Liberia 1996-2006

Abstract

Getting rid of the weapons with which violence is waged may prevent war. But not everyone world agree, not even the most ardent advocate of disarmament, but, as long as people have the capacity to resort to violence, war will continue to haunt us. Though the connection between weaponry and war is well documented, the history of disarmament however has not been very encouraging because disarmament proposals have been seen as self serving; giving one side advantage over the other. As a result, complete disarmament and demobilization is a difficult task, but with proper planning success can be achieved.

The objective of this research project was to analyze the United Nations disarmament programme implemented to build peace after the conflicts in Liberia . This complex stage of peace building in post conflict situations is known as the DDR, which stands for disarmament, demobilization and reintegration.The conceptual framework focuses on liberal institutionalism in the context of post conflict settings as the perspective that is best able to explain UN intervention in internal conflict and provides the answers on what to do after the conflict has come to an end under the umbrella of post conflict peace building.

Using the huge bulk of available literature, the case study gives detailed description and analysis of the disarmament programme implemented by the United Nations in Liberia discussing the achievements and failures.The conclusion reveals that there is need to increase awareness on the need for states to carry out total disarmament among its civilians if durable peace and security are to be realised in Africa.