Statebuilding versus state formation: the political economy of transition in Iraq and Libya

摘要: The international interventions in Iraq and Libya are exemplary of a decline the expectations that statebuilding fervour can contribute to full-fledged transformation societies intervened upon. From intervention under banner “armed liberalism” “post-interventionist” approach guided Libya, actors have renounced grand transformative narrative traditionally sustaining post-conflict initiatives. This study investigates impact this changing paradigm on state formation Libya. Bridging scholarship transitions as well Middle East North Africa region, addresses question interplay between from political economy perspective: emerging forms economic governance illustrative broader problems affecting these countries. Through process-oriented approach, moves beyond narrowly-conceived institutional analysis brings into focus transition. Based theoretical discussion empirical findings, shows an actor-oriented has far more explanatory power than institutionalist analysis. perspective, focuses role private sector agent for change transition: emergence consolidation policy prescription developing heralded re-definition agenda. Relying broad range sources data including interviews, papers, programmes’ reports, evaluations, contends novel adds contradictory character statebuilding: development remains trapped internationally held normative models domestic dynamics. Most importantly, entails interventionist contradicts principles self-regulating capacity market. thesis’ main argument is by building parallel agencies mechanisms, deviates process states. In other words, creates mode undermines Weberian notions statehood countries: while it penetrates deeply society, fails generate authority. Rather, favours dispersion authority across levels different types actors. generates hybrid economy: adaptation resistance neoliberal norms, institutions, continuously negotiated competing At same time, contributes undermining distinction public spheres: alternative consolidate informal institutions repertoires, increasingly come exercise functions. disjuncture stateness––the functions––shows limits analysing through narrow lens interpretation points re-evaluation analyses light legitimacy.