We aim to begin a conversation about former armed movements and the practices of state-building. While it is generally agreed upon that the transformation of rebel groups into political parties provides avenues for former rebel groups to contribute to sustainable peace, stability and democratisation, there has been little study of the actual politics they practice after the conflict has ended.

Our work examines the relevance of ideology for practices of state building and governance after conflict. We are also particularly interested in whether rebel group organisational dynamics and the type of conflict ending influences the extent to which former rebel groups are able to implement their ideas of state transformation.

We map the changing ideological identities and political strategies employed by former armed groups before and after the conflict as they seek to continue to influence, implement and articulate ideas and practices of state-building.

See also: Government and Opposition Special Issue

Next: Inclusion and Democracy