The Everett Post-Conflict Reconstruction Program

Current Research

Secretary of Defense Robert Gates is one senior official who has recognized that a lack of coordination and effective strategy within the U.S. government has limited the utility of U.S. PCR efforts. In November 2007 Secretary Gates stated that “the threats and challenges we will face abroad...will extend well beyond the traditional domain of any single government agency.” Clearly, the recent experiences in Iraq and Afghanistan only reinforce the lesson that multiple agencies and a wide range of expertise are needed to manage a successful PCR project.

From an international perspective, the fundamental challenge remains “how can the international community assist in helping fragile or failing states build the capacity necessary to provide basic services to their citizens in order to prevent human rights violations and the spread of international crime and terrorism?”  Such a challenge can only be addressed through a shared, multi-lateral approach that combines a nuanced understanding of local culture with assuring security and reconciliation, building institutions (rule of law, governance, and economy), promoting civil society, and providing humanitarian relief. 

The main focus of INSCT's current research is a comprehensive review of the post-conflict reconstruction field.  This will serve a dual purpose: (1) to identifying existing variables that explain instances of success or failure for the application of follow-on case study research, and (2) to design new graduate level courses specifically for current professionals and students seeking careers in this emerging field of work across a variety of settings.  The long term goal of this research is the establishment of a graduate level academic program in Post-Conflict Reconstruction and a broader research project aimed at building a PCR case study database and the publication of research findings. 

INSCT has also partnered with the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) Post-Conflict Reconstruction Project to explore new and innovative mechanisms for NGOs and the international community to deliver aid and humanitarian services in conflict zones more directly to local communities.

Contact

Nick Armstrong
INSCT Research Fellow
narmstro@maxwell.syr.edu
315-443-2033