CULTURAL IMPLICATIONS OF CIMIC MISSIONS IN MULTINATIONAL OPERATIONS
CULTURAL IMPLICATIONS OF CIMIC MISSIONS IN MULTINATIONAL OPERATIONS

Summary/Abstract: Where a minor conflict arises, there is a deep or superficial cultural problem. Culture is always a cause of conflict, whether it pays a central role or it subtly influences it. Intractable conflicts, such as the Israeli-Palestinian, are not only related to territory issues or sovereignty, but they also refer to the recognition and legitimacy of certain entities and ways of life. Life in harmony means life in cultural fluency. It means getting familiar with certain cultures: their nature, the way they function and modalities through which they interweave with human relationships in times of peace and conflict. The study of conflicts and the awareness of different cultural dimensions, including here communication, ways to settle and resolve conflicts, and the understanding of their identities and roles within a certain community, are defining elements in resolving conflicts or crises. The human factor from different cultures as well as the involvement of civilian actors have increased the degree of involvement of CIMIC component within military operations. Moreover, a good knowledge of the local situation, of the specific cultural aspects of a particular conflict zone can facilitate communication and cooperation with local authorities and locals, which gives specificity to CIMIC actions. Therefore, in theaters of operations, it is important to identify the most effective way of dealing with civilian actors, for coordination at all levels during military operations.

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