Abstract

During the 1990s the drive of liberal peace efforts in the form of humanitarian intervention transformed the ways in which traditional development assistance operated in war and post-war situations. From Somalia and Rwanda to Bosnia and Sri Lanka, conflict, security and development became more intertwined as more integrated programmes and interventions were advocated by the international community. Conflict and Development, whilst serving as an in-depth introduction to key themes and context, questions the extent to which international aid has over-reached in seeking to engage more centrally in addressing the causes and consequences of violent conflict. Using this framework, the author traces the evolution of the conflict and development agenda and explores the politics of aid and policymaking in relation to international conflict. By taking a combined approach of theory, policy and practice this vital new book explores and comprehensively explains the impact of conflict on development and vice-versa through the series of concise thematic chapters.
Eleanor O' Gorman works as an independent strategist and researcher on international development, conflict and security issues. She advises, among others, the UN, the UK Government, the Government of Ireland, the European Commission, and the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development. Eleanor has extensive field experience in conflict-affected countries including the Democratic Republic of Congo, Liberia, Sri Lanka and Timor Leste. Eleanor is currently Senior Associate at the Gender Studies Centre and Research Associate at the Department of Politics and International Studies at the University of Cambridge.
'"Conflict and Development" provides a comprehensive overview of the ideas and debates surrounding the intimate connection between development and security. O' Gorman's deft analysis moves from greed, grievance and poverty, through gender to embrace the wider issues of peacebuilding and statebuilding. For a single volume that brings order to this crowded terrain, this cannot be beaten.' Mark Duffield, Director, Global Insecurities Centre 'Eleanor O' Gorman's book provides us with an invaluable guide to the rapidly changing and highly contested landscape of conflict and development. Getting behind the headlines, she helps us navigate this difficult terrain. She leaves us more confident in our understanding of the history of the intertwining of fragility, conflict and development, and more astute in anticipating the challenges that will lie ahead.' Joanna Macrae, author of Aiding Recovery? The Crisis of Aid in Chronic Political Emergencies