When Critique is Framed as Resistance: How the International Intervention in Liberia Fails to Integrate Alternative Concepts and Constructive Criticism

Abstract

International interventions in post-war countries aim to support national governments in rebuilding vital state functions. They de facto become strong political players, but form self-referential systems parallel to national politics, neither checked nor balanced by the population of the respective host country. This relationship is explored in the case of Liberia, where we analyse different forms of resistance and their resonance for the international intervention. Our findings indicate that intervening actors in Liberia largely fail to respond to constructive forms of resistance. However, destructive forms of resistance such as violence and obstruction provoke strong attention. This creates an environment that is not conducive to an inclusive and stable democracy.