Economics in Counterinsurgency: Analyzing and Applying History's Lessons on Economic Strategy
Abstract
This thesis attempts to identify common basic tenets for the successful application of economics as a component of counterinsurgency efforts. Based on those tenets, this thesis will also explore how US government agencies can better apply economics in future counterinsurgency efforts. Identifying these basic tenets and proposing what agency or construct is best-suited to execute them may ultimately yield a more effective use of economics in prosecuting COIN campaigns in the future. Absence of a common operating framework, vague and conflicting guidance, and a lack of an integrated and cohesive effort among US government agencies in the employment of economics in counterinsurgency operations is apparent. This thesis examines the application of economics through case study analysis, reviewing the Marshall Plan, the Vietnam War, and Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom. Analysis of these case studies suggests that host-government partnership, unity of control, and capacity development are fundamental tenets of the successful employment of economics in a counterinsurgency campaign.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 13, 2014
- Accession Number
- ADA623209
Entities
People
- Hayes J. Weidman
Organizations
- United States Army Command and General Staff College