Demilitarizing Politics: Elections on the Uncertain Road to Peace

by Terrence Lyons

Lyons (conflict analysis and resolution, George Mason U.) examines the complex and often contentious period following a civil war but preceding the first post-conflict elections, some of which succeed at creating new nations and others of which fail miserably. He contends that the atmosphere created in this period is conducive to the "demilitarization of politics," in which institutions put into power by war can be made capable of sustaining peace if the warring parties resolve to change their policies and adapt to competition within the confines of the electoral process. Lyons cites a number of cases illustrating how this process works, and how it does not, and proposes models that will attract opponents' seeking peace. Annotation ©2006 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

232 pages, Hardcover

Published October 31, 2005