The Accountability of Armed Groups: A Roadmap for Further Thought

Abstract

This chapter investigates the meaning of the term “accountability”, as it is used in policy discussions surrounding armed groups. It takes a detailed look at literature from public administration on the concept of accountability and applies it to the various accountability mechanisms that evaluate the conduct of armed groups against international norms. In doing so, the chapter points out some of the shortcomings of some of these accountability mechanisms. It ends by examining some of the more innovative accountability models, such as the process created by Geneva Call and the ad hoc processes created by the UNAMA field office in Afghanistan vis-a-vis the Taliban.