Reversing the Stabilisation Paradigm: Towards an Alternative Approach

Abstract

An examination of the dialogue concerning Stabilisation illuminates a paradigm based on the ideas of the so-called ‘liberal peace’ – defined minimally as democracy and free markets. This model proposes that if the liberal peace is delivered at the sub-national level via Stabilisation interventions, then the desired outcome would be ‘stability’. However, commentators of Stabilisation generally agree that the liberal peace is an unachievable objective that inhibits the desired outcome of ‘stability’. This Practice Note contests this analysis and instead argues that ‘stability’ is an unachievable objective that inhibits the desired outcome of a liberal democratic functioning state. Therefore, Stabilisation’s desired outcome becomes the protection and enjoyment of human rights, rather than ‘stability’. This practice note continues its examination of Stabilisation and comes to the conclusion that Stabilisaton can be understood as political actions in support of an ideological outcome. This understanding of Stabilisation is compatible with existing international engagements in support of national transition processes and can be applied across the spectrum from consent to coercion.