Conflict in Syria: A New Wars Theory Examination

Abstract

This research paper analyzed the Syrian conflict using New Wars Theory by Mary Kaldor. The central argument of New Wars Theory is that modern warfare are completely different from traditional warfare. The Syrian conflict which started with local protests and has engulfed the whole country with its regional and global impacts. This study tries to examine the complexities and dynamics of the conflict in Syria, which was particularly affected by the Arab Spring. This is mainly done to examine how this conflict has been shaped through Role of State and Non-State actors, identity politics, war economies and blurring of combatant and non-combatants distinctions. Therefore, a comprehensive analysis utilizing peer-reviewed journals, academic books and reliable sources has been done to understand the complexity of modern warfare as demonstrated by the Syrian war. The results demonstrate that how the Syrian conflict fits well with New Wars theory, challenging the traditional notions of warfare. The analysis helps us to understand the contemporary conflicts, and also gives an insight on how to resolve these conflicts and offers pathways for conflict management and peace building.