| Publication |
2010.
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| Summary/Abstract |
Soldiers' self-images undoubtedly influence the way they recognize, perceive, plan and conduct their tasks. The article examines the self-image of Swedish peacekeepers in the UNMIL mission in Liberia and the UNMIK mission in Kosovo. The findings are based on interviews with 27 soldiers before, during and after deployment. Eleven dimensions of self-image were found, showing that the self-image refers almost entirely to the peacekeeping and not the war-fighting role. In addition, the Swedish soldiers hold themselves to be excellent peacekeepers. Departing from this observation, we discuss three dilemmas in peacekeeping that have implications beyond the Swedish armed forces. The argument is that being less self-referential may make peacekeeping more successful.
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