How Civil Wars Start - And How to Stop Them

A must-read for anyone interested in preventing civil wars

In her book, Barbara F. Walter provides a comprehensive analysis of the causes of civil wars and offers practical advice on how to prevent them. Drawing on a wealth of historical and contemporary examples, Walter argues that civil wars are not simply the result of ethnic or religious hatred, but are often the product of political grievances, economic inequality, and institutional weakness.

Key insights

• Civil wars are not inevitable. They are the result of specific political, economic, and social conditions that can be addressed and mitigated.
• There are warning signs of civil war. By identifying these signs, we can take steps to prevent violence from escalating.
• Civil wars can be stopped. There are a number of things that can be done to mediate conflicts and build peace.

Why you should read this book

If you are interested in preventing civil wars, this book is a must-read. Walter provides a wealth of valuable insights into the causes of civil wars and offers practical advice on how to prevent them. This book is essential reading for anyone who wants to make a difference in the world.

Praise for How Civil Wars Start - And How to Stop Them

"A brilliant and timely book. Walter provides a powerful analysis of the causes of civil wars and offers practical advice on how to prevent them. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in preventing violence and building peace." - Noam Chomsky

"A magisterial work. Walter has written the definitive book on civil wars. This book is essential reading for anyone who wants to understand the causes of violence and how to prevent it." - Francis Fukuyama

"A tour de force. Walter has produced a comprehensive and insightful analysis of civil wars. This book is a major contribution to the field of peace studies." - Mary Kaldor

About the author

Barbara F. Walter is a professor of international relations at the University of California, San Diego. She is the author of numerous books and articles on civil wars, including Red Flags: Why Nations Fail and How to Stop Them and Winning the War on War: The Decline of Armed Conflict Worldwide.