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Time to Kill

Author

Listed:
  • Dawn Brancati

    (Department of Political Science, Washington University in St. Louis, Saint Louis, MO, USA)

  • Jack L. Snyder

    (Columbia University, War and Peace Institute, New York, NY, USA)

Abstract

Elections constitute a fundamental element of postconflict peacebuilding efforts in the post–cold war era and are often held soon after conflicts end. Yet, the impact of early elections on postconflict stability is the subject of sharp debate. While some argue that early elections facilitate peace agreements, hasten democratization, and ensure postconflict stability, others suggest that they undermine genuine democracy and spark a renewal in fighting. In this study, we argue that holding elections soon after a civil war ends generally increases the likelihood of renewed fighting, but that favorable conditions, including decisive victories, demobilization, peacekeeping, power sharing, and strong political, administrative and judicial institutions, can mitigate this risk. We attempt to reconcile the extant qualitative debate on postconflict elections through a quantitative analysis of all civil wars ending in the post–World War II period.

Suggested Citation

  • Dawn Brancati & Jack L. Snyder, 2013. "Time to Kill," Journal of Conflict Resolution, Peace Science Society (International), vol. 57(5), pages 822-853, October.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:jocore:v:57:y:2013:i:5:p:822-853
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