Post-Conflict Reconstruction

Countries emerging from conflict situations are almost always plagued by social upheaval, damaged infrastructure, reduced productive capacity, severe revenue shortfalls, seriously weakened human resources and greatly diminished security. The challenges are daunting as post-conflict governments strive to ensure peace and security, foster social reconciliation and promote development. Yet recovery is possible if the political leadership and public administration can earn the trust of the people, effectively provide services to all and operate in an efficient, effective, transparent and accountable way. This book is about how countries can rebuild the foundations and establish the conditions for self-sustaining, inclusive socio-economic development in the immediate aftermath of violent conflict. The book emphasizes that because post-conflict situations are heterogeneous, there are no ‘one size fits all’ solutions to governance challenges. In each country, political leadership and public administration reforms should be tailored to local needs.