About Book

This book explores the intersection of military culture, masculinity, and peacebuilding efforts in the conflicts of Afghanistan and Iraq. Claire Duncanson critically examines how military masculinities shape and influence post-war reconstruction, peacekeeping, and humanitarian operations. The book questions whether militaries—traditionally built on hegemonic masculinity, aggression, and domination—can truly serve as agents of peace. Through case studies of U.S., British, and NATO forces, Duncanson analyzes the contradictions between military interventions and peacebuilding objectives, highlighting how gendered norms impact conflict resolution, civilian-military relations, and development policies. The book presents a feminist perspective on security studies, offering valuable insights into how gender dynamics affect peace efforts and post-conflict societies.