Provisional Reconstruction Teams: An Operational Imperative
Abstract
World events have changed requiring a holistic approach to conflict prevention and termination, instability, and multi-dimensional enabling environments with difficult, wicked problem sets. Today operational success has a much broader definition that includes, wining the peace. PRTs are the one solution set to stability operations to evolve out of OEF/OIF. They are an operational imperative because PRTs tactically address causes and symptoms to the social fabric in multi-dimensional, complex, near post-conflict environments. The existence of PRTs is recognition of the interdependence of development and security: development cannot exist without security and security will not be possible without development. The PRT construct is a multi-national, interagency, joint answer to these wicked problem sets. They are the one vehicle to harness all elements of national power and provide an economy of force option attractive to many international partners. So important is the PRT construct, that the U.S. Government has codified its operations into law and policy. NGOs, the most vocal institutions opposing the PRT construct, are starting to view PRTs less as competitors and more as value-added entities. While certainly not the panacea to SSTR operations, PRTs have many remaining challenges to overcome before becoming a permanent part of the development, diplomatic, and military landscape. Nevertheless, PRTs remain the best option to confront the multitude of challenges resident in complex operations.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 06, 2007
- Accession Number
- ADA476765
Entities
People
- Andrew G. Wilcox
Organizations
- Naval War College