A Sustainable Post-Conflict Stabilization Framework: Applying Lessons from Afghanistan

ABSTRACT

Post-conflict stabilization (PCS) is a governance endeavor that has traditionally relied on Old Public Administration (PA) approaches, and has implications for democratic sustainability. This research conceptually explores some of the root causes of PCS failure, its relation to PA, and how stabilization might be improved using New Public Service principles. A case analysis of Afghanistan’s stabilization efforts serves as a focusing event and provides lessons to justify the development of a framework for PCS that is based on inclusivity and sustainability. Finally, implications and recommendations for future research are provided to help refine this proposed framework.

KEYWORDS:

• Post-conflict stabilization
• goal ambiguity
• New Public Service
• governance

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).