De-Conflicting Civil-Military Networks

Abstract

Operation Unified Protector (OUP) in Libya illustrated the urgent need for civil-military command in the sense of at least de-conflicting primary operational processes of military and international civilian actors. A military theater such as Libya is externally connected and surrounded by huge (additional) movements by air, sea, and land. This chapter provides insight into network structures and practices for achieving such de-confliction in the context of complex peace operations. Based on a case study and prior responsibilities of one of the authors, the chapter shows how NATO's Allied Movement Coordination Centre (AMCC) functioned as a linking pin between military and international civilian actors. Challenges it faced are addressed, including establishment of relationships with relevant actors, understanding their ways of working, and developing procedures to coordinate a heterogeneous network.