Publication and Purpose

This title was first published in 2001. This work represents the author's writing and thinking over the last decade on the subject of military intervention and peacekeeping. He deconstructs what has been developed under the auspices of UN "peacekeeping" with a view to producing a new paradigm more appropriate to the challenges of the 21st century.

Recognition and Critique of the UN

This is not an exercise in disparaging the UN, the organization's achievements are recognized, along with its prevalent habit of entering environments it has neither the resources or expertise to manage.

Content and Structure

The first four chapters establish a foundation built upon philosophy, doctrine, definitions, principles and decision-making processes. This thinking is then tested using scenarios drawn from Iraq, Somalia, Rwanda, Kosovo, East Timor and Sierra Leone.

Focus and Intent

The book is founded on theory and practice and it is particularly intended to explain the conduct of the political and military processes involved in military intervention and peacekeeping.