The Triadic Stool Model

A Framework for Sustainable Peace and State Building Accountable Governance, Professional Security, and Independent Justice as Interdependent Pillars of Stability

Abstract

In spite of extensive international intervention, investment and institution-building over several decades, lasting peace continues to be a distant dream for large parts of the world. This paper presents the "Triadic Stool Model" -- a conceptual framework based on the idea that there are three interconnected pillars for building sustainable peace and a functioning state: (1) good Governance and Rule of Law, (2) Security and Justice, and (3) economic foundations and resource management. The model is based on the image of a three-legged stool, which indicates that stability will only occur if all three legs are able to carry equal weights. If one leg of the stool is lengthened, weakened or eliminated, the entire structure will topple. The innovative element of the Triadic Stool Model lies in its emphasis on triadic synchronization. As opposed to hierarchical or sequential progression in the development of governance, security and economic development, the model asserts that governance, security and economic development must progress in relative harmony. Over-investment in security without reforming governance leads to authoritarian stability. Reforming governance without providing economic opportunities results in hollow democracies. Economic growth without a rule of law enables kleptocracy. Each leg of the stool creates virtuous or vicious circles in which either reinforce or undermine each other's ability to promote peace or instability in a country.  The framework is tested using five comparative case studies: Somalia, where all three legs of the stool are weak, yet international focus is disproportionately directed towards security; South Sudan, where elite capture has resulted in hollowed-out governance and economics, thus rendering security a means of political dominance; Nigeria, where patronage networks have enabled vast economic resources to be diverted from providing benefit to the majority of Nigerians due to failed governance structures; Afghanistan, where institutions built with external scaffolding fell simultaneously upon withdrawal of external support; and Colombia, where the 2016 peace agreement represents the greatest effort to date in terms of attempting triadic synchronization however implementation gaps remain in rural security and economics threatening the durability of the agreement. In addition to presenting a model of peace building, the paper suggests developing a Triadic Synchronization Index (TSI) designed to measure not just how strong each leg of the stool is independently but also how balanced each leg is. Furthermore, the paper includes a number of early warning signs for potential imbalances between each leg of the stool and an accompanying matrix detailing specific policy recommendations for policymakers, donors and civil society organizations working to establish sustainable peace.