Introduction: Searching for Strategy in an Age of Peacebuilding

Daniel Philpott introduces this volume with the search for a definition of strategic peacebuilding, arguing that holism is its defining characteristic. He first critically examines the notion of the “liberal peace” which pervades the dominant thinking of peacekeeping operations, international institutions such as the United Nations, and western governments. Philpott argues that although these institutions have moved toward more holistic approaches, they have not fully conceptualized an approach to peacebuilding that is “strategic,” meaning it purposefully strengthens integration and...

Daniel Philpott introduces this volume with the search for a definition of strategic peacebuilding, arguing that holism is its defining characteristic. He first critically examines the notion of the “liberal peace” which pervades the dominant thinking of peacekeeping operations, international institutions such as the United Nations, and western governments. Philpott argues that although these institutions have moved toward more holistic approaches, they have not fully conceptualized an approach to peacebuilding that is “strategic,” meaning it purposefully strengthens integration and coordination among diverse and interdependent activities, policies, and time horizons. Philpott concludes with a conceptual map of the book, which evidences the constructive diversity of arguments presented in the succeeding chapters for innovative ways in which different sectors, actors and policies can link together fruitfully—in other words, strategically.