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ID: 100021

How much culture is needed? the intercultural dilemma of the Bu / Tomforde, Maren

Tomforde, Maren	Journal Article
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2010.

Summary/Abstract

Using the Bundeswehr operation in command of the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) in Afghanistan as an example, this article follows the assumption that German soldiers find themselves in an 'intercultural dilemma'. Intercultural competencies are expected of them in theatre but they are not always able to apply them and the strategic-political level responsible for the mandate hardly incorporates the 'cultural factor'. However, 'intercultural sensitivity with reservations' will not win the 'hearts and minds' of the local population, or help to guarantee sustainable stability in conflict regions such as Afghanistan. Profound appraisal of the role of local cultures should be of central importance to the tactical-operational level during operations abroad as well as to the strategic-political level at home. The article discusses the tactical-operational level in regard to how much intercultural competence Bundeswehr 'peacekeepers' need and what kind of intercultural challenges they encounter in Afghanistan. On a long-term basis, conflict management, peacebuilding and sustainable development can only be achieved in harmony with the people in the area and not against them or over their heads and needs.

Key Words

Afghanistan ; Bundeswehr Operation ; International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) ; Intercultural Challenges

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ID: 069901

Motivation and self-image among German peacekeepers / Tomforde, Maren

Tomforde, Maren	Journal Article
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Publication

2005.

Summary/Abstract

Based on anthropological fieldwork and questionnaire surveys, this article examines the experience of German peacekeeping units (7th and 8th contingents) deployed to Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) as part of the Stabilization Force (SFOR) in 2003-04. The main research topic was the motivation of German soldiers of all ranks before embarking on and during peacekeeping missions. The results of this quantitative and qualitative study emphasize that differences exist between motivation for deployment and motivation during deployment. These differences are explained and linked with results from the assessment of Bundeswehr soldiers' self-images during deployment.

Key Words

Peacekeeping ; Germany-Peacekeeping Forces ; Stabilization Force ; SFOR

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