Designing Transitions from Civil War: Demobilization, Democratization, and Commitments to Peace

Abstract

For years scholars and policymakers have sought to develop ways to negotiate the end of internal conflicts and bring enduring peace to states torn apart by civil war. Barbara Walter of the University of California at San Diego argues that the key to successful conflict resolution lies in the development and implementation of credible commitments. Without them, Walter argues, warring factions are likely to reject negotiated settlements and resume fighting.