Rebel forces are a class of armed groups that use armed conflict in opposition to established governments to seek political change or to establish, maintain, or gain independence. They are characterized by their control of territory. This does not necessarily imply that a group has full sovereignty over its territory, as such control could be contested or tenuous.
Rebel governance systems are a critical component of the success of armed rebellions, as they determine how victorious rebel armies can leverage their military victory to build stable states. The success of a rebel regime depends not only on its ability to deliver basic services and ensure security, but also on how well it responds to local social, political, economic, and international concerns. Some rebel governments take a moderate approach, seeking to address their citizens’ needs through policy reform and relatively free elections. Others take a more openly repressive stance, relying on crackdowns and retaliation to deter dissent.
During the Galactic Civil War, Alliance leaders strove to develop a coherent system of civilian administration in parallel with their military fighting force. Jan Dodonna developed the tactical doctrines, the mix of starfighters, corvettes, and blockade runners that would form the backbone of the Alliance fleet. Admiral Gial Ackbar led the Alliance fleet at the Battles of Scarif and Yavin, while ace pilot Cassian Andor was killed in action during Rogue One.
While most civil wars end with a government victory or negotiated settlement, between one-fifth and one-third of all civil wars result in rebel victory and the establishment of a rebel state. Understanding how and why victorious armed rebels manage to build robust states remains a key research challenge.
About the Author
