The Rise of Battlefield Private Contractors

Abstract

This article examines the large increase in the use of private military contract firms in the Iraq theater of war. The conditions under which policy was changed to allow for growth in this area make it an interesting case study to apply Kingdon's multiple streams framework. This theoretical framework, typically applied to policy-making within the legislative branch, is used in this study to examine policy change within the executive branch. By focusing on the administration of George W. Bush, Kingdon's framework allows for insight into agenda setting and policy formulation/adoption. By identifying the elements of each of the streams in the framework, an understanding can be reached regarding how and why the policy of increased use of private military firms emerged as a viable option after the attacks of 9/11 and the invasion of Iraq. Further, in uncovering the rationality behind the policy adoption, ethical concerns and the impact of these decisions on the U.S. Army are considered.