Legitimacy in conflict: concepts, practices, challenges

von Billerbeck, S. B. K. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0154-1944 and Gippert, B. (2017) Legitimacy in conflict: concepts, practices, challenges. Journal of Intervention and Statebuilding, 11 (3). pp. 273-285. ISSN 1750-2985 doi: 10.1080/17502977.2017.1357701

Abstract/Summary

The study of legitimacy in situations of conflict and peacebuilding has increased in recent years. However, current work on the topic adopts many assumptions, definitions, and understandings from classical legitimacy theory, which centers on the relationship between the nation-state and its citizens. In this introduction, we provide a detailed critical overview of current theories of legitimacy and legitimation and demonstrate why they have only limited applicability in conflict and post-conflict contexts, focusing on the three main areas that the articles included in this special issue examine: audiences for legitimacy, sources of legitimacy, and legitimation. In particular, we show how conflict and post-conflict contexts are marked by the fragmentation and personalization of power; the proliferation and fragmentation of legitimacy audiences; and ambiguity surrounding legitimation strategies.

Item Type	Article
URI	https://reading-clone.eprints-hosting.org/id/eprint/71417
Identification Number/DOI	10.1080/17502977.2017.1357701
Refereed	Yes
Divisions	Arts, Humanities and Social Science > School of Politics, Economics and International Relations > Politics and International Relations
Uncontrolled Keywords	conflict peacekeeping legitimacy intervention
Publisher	Taylor and Francis
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