Number: RS22031
Title: Peacekeeping and Post-Conflict Capabilities: The State Departments Office for Reconstruction and Stabilization
Authors: Nina M. Serafino and Martin A. Weiss, Foreign Affairs, Defense, and Trade Division 
Abstract: The State Departments new Office of the Coordinator for Reconstruction and Stabilization (S/CRS) is intended to address longstanding concerns, both within Congress and the broader policy community, over what is seen as inadequate planning mechanisms for stabilization and reconstruction operations, lack of inter-agency coordination in carrying out such tasks, and inappropriate capabilities for many of the non-military tasks required. Effectively distributing resources among the various executive branch actors, maintaining clear lines of authority and jurisdiction, and balancing short- and long-term objectives are major challenges for designing, planning, and conducting post-conflict operations.
Pages: 6
Date: January 19, 2005