Legacies of Contested Governance: Evidence from Rebel Rule in Southeast Turkey

"Legacies of Contested Governance: Evidence from Rebel Rule in Southeast Turkey" by Ilayda B. Onder and Cyanne E. Loyle (Pennsylvania State University)

Abstract:

"What are the long-term impacts of living under rebel rule? During armed conflict civilians often live in an area of contested governance—rebel groups, NGOs, and criminal syndicates all vie for authority and challenge the control of the state. As nonstate actors confront the authority and legitimacy of the state, citizens become central players in that competition asked to uphold or undermine the legitimacy claims of nonstate actors. In this paper we examine the long-term impact of contested governance for citizens living in those spaces. Leveraging survey data from areas historically under PKK control in southeastern Turkey, we focus on the ways in which contestations over governance during the conflict has shaped future trust and engagement with the Turkish state. Specifically, we find that conflict experience and personal experiences with alternative governance institutions are important factors in understanding the impact of contested governance. Our findings increase our understanding of the long-term impact of armed conflict on civilians and the potential lasting impacts of contested governance on the post-conflict state."

Discussants:

Jori Breslawski (Tel Aviv University)

Kristen Kao (University of Gothenburg)

Sukanya Podder (King's College London)

Megan Stewart (American University)

OPSC Coordinator:

Cassy Dorff (Vanderbilt University)