An Examination of the Cultural and Historical Factors That Influence the USA and Her Partners' Approach to Military Coalitions: Two Sides of the same Dime
Abstract
This thesis will look at the variety of cultural and historical factors that influence a country's attitude to joining and performing within a military coalition. The context is the broad American-led coalition involved in fighting Al Qaeda and other Jihadist organisations. For the purposes of the thesis, America's coalition partners are divided into two broad camps: her traditional European allies and the newer, but strategically vital Muslim states of the Middle East and Indian sub-continent. Europeans share a common heritage with the United States. This heritage and a European disposition for collective defence and diplomacy make them natural partners. However, the threat is from Al Qaeda and its Networks (AQN) that have emerged from the Middle East. There is little shared cultural history with this part of the world, but the support of this region's nation states is key to AQN's defeat. The thesis will highlight the historical and cultural factors of the very different coalition partners. By understanding their differences and their inherent strengths and weaknesses, the United States can build a stronger and more cohesive coalition. The impetus for success is greater than merely defeating AQN. The advent of the Information Age has empowered non-state players and allowed terrorist organisations to undermine legitimate regimes to an extent not previously possible. Sovereign states must learn to come together in flexible and agile coalitions that utilize not just force, but all the elements of National Power in a synchronised manner to defeat such a threat and protect their citizens.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 2010
- Accession Number
- ADA530258
Entities
People
- Patrick G. Dowsett
Organizations
- National Defense University