home > our work > accord > armed groups > contents > abstract: Engaging armed groups: the challenge of asymmetries
Engaging armed groups: the challenge of asymmetries Liz Philipson (2005) Liz Philipson argues that interveners in conflicts must make better analyses of the asymmetrical relations between states and armed groups to avoid institutionalizing inequalities. Growing international intervention in conflicts means systemic state bias can prove an obstacle for non-state actors, especially in terms of international proscriptions, legitimacy, and familiarity with diplomatic norms. Philipson explores the different dimensions of this asymmetry that might frustrate negotiations. Free from the complex burden of government, armed groups may have more conflict-focused agendas than government actors, but their search for formal domestic political legitimization is fraught with dangers that others may seek to exploit (e.g. with premature pressure for decommissioning weapons). Different sorts of mediation support and assistance are required, including the space to give direct help to the weaker party.
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