The iron fist in the velvet glove: the application of classic counterinsurgency theory in Afghanistan 2006-10

Halsne, Sigbjørn (2018) The iron fist in the velvet glove: the application of classic counterinsurgency theory in Afghanistan 2006-10. PhD thesis, University of Glasgow.

Abstract

This thesis examines the soundness of the claim that counterinsurgency theory is no longer valid based on the experiences from Afghanistan. It does so by analysing to which degree three members of the coalition adhered to the theories of counterinsurgency in their operations between 2006-2010. Initially the thesis examines classic counterinsurgency theory. It argues that this theory is mainly characterised by a primacy of politics, that the population is the centre of gravity and a concerted government effort. I further analyses the efforts of Norway, Great Britain and the Netherlands within the framework of classic counterinsurgency theory. In sum, this thesis argues the Afghan case demonstrates that classic counterinsurgency theory is not outmoded. Of the three states studied in this thesis, only the Netherlands can be said to have adhered to counterinsurgency theory in the execution of the mission.

• Item Type: Thesis (PhD)
• Qualification Level: Doctoral
• Keywords: Counterinsurgency, Afghanistan, The Netherlands, United Kingdom, Norway.
• Subjects: U Military Science > U Military Science (General)
• Colleges/Schools: College of Arts & Humanities
• Supervisor's Name: Jackson, Professor Peter
• Date of Award: 2018
• Depositing User: Sigbjørn Halsne
• Unique ID: glathesis:2018-73007
• Copyright: Copyright of this thesis is held by the author.
• Date Deposited: 31 May 2019 15:44
• Last Modified: 13 Aug 2019 12:22
• URI: https://theses.gla.ac.uk/id/eprint/73007