The impact and potential of the international coalition against ISIS
Since September 2014 the US has been building an international coalition to fight the terror militia known as Islamic State (ISIS). While ISIS has made significant territorial gains in Syria and Iraq, the coalition against the group continues to grow as well, bringing together numerous nations that provide various levels of support, both political and in the form of military equipment, intelligence, and aid. While coalition partners may not share the same vision for the future of the Middle East, they share a common goal: fighting ISIS.
The workshop was divided into three discussion panels, designed to explore the strengths and weaknesses of the coalition against ISIS and focus on various aspects such as the impact on the region and the roles played by international organizations.
The first panel focussed on the coalition itself as well as on questions relating to political and strategic implications for the region. Participants were largely united in stressing that ISIS cannot be beaten solely by military means. Particular attention must be paid to stabilizing territories after liberation. Panelists also stressed the fact that the coalition’s success depends predominately on the Arab states. Regional powers must take over leadership, both in terms of content and strategy, while Western states should primarily provide support.
The second panel was devoted to the coalition’s operative dimension and therefore also addressed the subject of Germany’s military engagement. Up until now, Germany has taken part in the coalition through its mission to train Kurdish Peshmerga fighters and deliver arms to northern Iraq. The corresponding mandate from the German Bundestag, in place through early 2016, will soon be evaluated and possibly extended and expanded. Germany is unlikely, however, to take part in air strikes conducted by other coalition members. As in the first panel, it was also noted here that military action should be just one aspect of the fight against ISIS. Investing in soft-power elements is just as important, including measures to build trust in Iraqi institutions and foster reconciliation among different ethic groups. These are the crucial means of contributing to lasting stability in Iraq.
The third and last discussion panel looked at the role of international organizations in the fight against ISIS. It is now clear that NATO will in the future continue to seek to stay on the sidelines of the conflict. On the other hand, other organizations such as the EU are active on behalf of the affected regions, primarily with humanitarian support. Another topic of discussion was the future of the coalition. The coalition’s loose format is seen as an advantage in that it leaves room for greater individual engagement on the part of individual partners. The coalition’s long-term prospects are slim, however, as it is geared entirely toward fighting the Islamic State.
About seventy guests took part in the April 14 event, which was held in English under the Chatham House Rule. It was generously supported by the German Marshall Fund of the United States.
