Sal Artiaga
Irregular warfare (IW) combines military actions, academic theories, and strategic policies. This field draws important viewpoints from each area. Yet, differences between those who fight, research, and create policies can cause problems. Soldiers who face combat situations provide hands-on lessons. Researchers offer big-picture concepts and deep studies, while government officials concentrate on broader aims and policymaking. We must understand these differences to create effective IW plans and develop opportunities for better communication and collaboration.
The Role of Practitioners in Irregular Warfare
Irregular warfare practitioners carry out IW operations on the ground. These include special operations forces, intelligence operatives, and other military personnel who employ unconventional tactics, guerilla warfare, sensitive activities, and psychological operations. Practitioners have direct experience and practical know-how, having dealt with IW's unpredictable and often chaotic nature. They frequently face situations that don't match theoretical models. The complexities of human behavior in local cultures and the changing nature of conflict zones can make strict academic frameworks seem to need to be more in touch with real-world conditions. Practitioners need spaces to present their experiences and insights in ways that academics and policymakers understand. Practitioners’ specific terms and tactical focus can create obstacles to clear communication. On top of that, practitioners often work under policies made by people who might need to grasp the operational environment. This situation can cause frustration and a feeling of disconnect between what happens in the field and what policies say.
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