Security Arrangements Readings


LAWYERING PEACE: security

This chapter from the Lawyering Peace book addresses a number of conundrums related to re-establishing the monopoly of force that parties face during peace negotiations and the broader peace process. First, this chapter discusses the puzzle of whether and how to create a state-held monopoly of force in a manner that ensures a durable peace. Next, the chapter provides a conceptual and legal primer for understanding the principle of sovereignty, as well as the international framework for the authorization of the use of force centered around the UN Charter. Then, the chapter explores a number of instances of key state practice to analyze and highlight how parties involved in peace negotiations have sought to manage the conundrums they faced when seeking to solve the puzzle of re-establishing the monopoly of force.

Video Summary of Lawyering Peace: Security

Access a video summary of the Security Chapter of the Lawyering Peace Book HERE.

Micro-Skills Exercise

Click HERE to access the micro-skills exercise on sharing the monopoly of force with non-state actors.

Mini-Negotiation Simulation

The purpose of this negotiation is to identify and address the complex challenges related to deploying peacekeeping missions, while also working to re-establish a state-held monopoly of force during negotiations in the context of Mali. The intention is to explore potential points of agreement or disagreement among the key negotiating parties. Through the simulation, participants will debate their positions, learn negotiation techniques, identify points of conflict, and discuss potential solutions. 

The simulation will tee up the conversation in the remainder of the class time on the question of security in peace agreements, and draw from the relevant chapter in Lawyering Peace as well as the supplementary material, if any, provided on the class website.

Mali has been plagued by instability and conflict since the 2012 military coup and the subsequent occupation of the northern region by armed groups. Ethnic tensions have escalated, particularly involving the Fulani community, who face allegations of supporting Islamic militants. The United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA) has been operating under a Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA) since its establishment in 2013. The mission has been criticized for not protecting civilians from jihadist attacks, despite its sizable force (about 13,000 military personnel) and considerable budget ($1.26b). Tensions became more heightened when Mali’s government wanted the peacekeeping forces to become more active in fighting the Islamist threat, which was not a part of the mission’s mandate. The Malian government has demanded the withdrawal of the UN peacekeeping mission, the UN is debating whether to continue its presence under Chapter 7 principles, and the Fulani community is frustrated with both the UN and the government.

Click here to access the negotiation simulation on Peacekeeping in Mali.

Professional Development

podcast: Changing US POlicy in 900 Words or less

Listen to the podcast Changing US Policy in 900 Words or Less HERE.

HARVARD BUSINESS REVIEW: Nine Things Successful People Do Differently

Read the HBR Nine Things Successful People Do Differently HERE.

Podcast: Alumni in Excellence: Jason Steinbaum

Listen to the Alumni in Excellence podcast with Jason Steinbaum HERE.

Lawyering Peace Podcast: Robert Perito

Listen to Robert Perito: 1991 Angola Peace Process HERE.