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Structural Stability: On the Prerequisites of Nonviolent Conflict Management

Author

Listed:
  • Mehler, Andreas
  • Engel, Ulf
  • Giesbert, Lena
  • Kuhlmann, Jenny
  • von Soest, Christian

Abstract

The concept of 'structural stability' has been gaining prominence in development policy circles. In the EU's and the OECD Development Assistance Committee's (OECD DAC) understanding, it describes the ability of societies to handle intra-societal conflict without resorting to violence. This study investigates the preconditions of structural stability and tests their mutual interconnections. Seven dimensions are analyzed: (1) long-term economic growth, (2) environmental security, (3) social equality, (4) governmental effectiveness, (5) democracy, (6) rule of law, and (7) inclusion of identity groups. The postulated mutual enhancement of the seven dimensions is plausible but cannot be proven. The most significant positive relationship appears between 'democracy' and 'rule of law', respectively, on the one hand and the dependent variable 'violence/ human security' on the other hand. This points to the usefulness of the political concept of structural stability to promote development policy agendas in this area at least. Applications that reach beyond these initial findings will, however, require further research.

Suggested Citation

  • Mehler, Andreas & Engel, Ulf & Giesbert, Lena & Kuhlmann, Jenny & von Soest, Christian, 2008. "Structural Stability: On the Prerequisites of Nonviolent Conflict Management," GIGA Working Papers 75, GIGA German Institute of Global and Area Studies.
    • Handle: RePEc:zbw:gigawp:75
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    JEL classification:

    • F35 - International Economics - - International Finance - - - Foreign Aid
    • O10 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economic Development - - - General
    • O22 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Development Planning and Policy - - - Project Analysis

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