Third-Party Intervention in International Conflicts: Peacekeeping and Peacemaking in the Post-Cold War Era

Abstract

This article evaluates peacekeeping and peacemaking as two major third-party intervention strategies in international conflicts in the post Cold War era. Peacekeeping is recognized as a needed strategy in situations of violent conflict, but its extensive use is criticized. The study suggests that peacekeeping should be complemented by peacemaking for effective international conflict resolution. By explaining the general characteristics of the two and the complementary relationship between them, a "contingency approach" is reached, stressing that in determining appropriate third-party intervention, different stages of an international conflict should be considered.

Keywords

Peacekeeping, Peacemaking, Third-Party Intervention, International Conflict, Conflict Resolution

Citation

Yılmaz, Muzaffer Ercan, “Third-Party Intervention in International Conflicts: Peacekeeping and Peacemaking in the Post-Cold War Era”, International Relations, Volume 3, No 11 (Fall 2006), p. 25-44.

Affiliations

• Muzaffer Ercan Yılmaz, Asst. Prof. Dr., Balıkesir University, Department of International Relations