Abstract

New protectorates, such as Iraq, Afghanistan, East Timor and Kosovo, have experienced a medium to long term international presence, which has sought to ensure security and implement liberal democracy. Given that social movement activity has been linked to democratic development, the presence and development of social movements in new protectorates presents a novel and interesting context in which to study social movements. Using a political opportunity framework as a guide, this research examines the extent to which international actors in new protectorate contexts influence the strategy of social movements. A case analysis of two entities, Vetëvendosje, a social movement and social movement organisation (SMO) in Kosovo, and Afghanistan 1400, a civil society organisation (CSO) in Afghanistan, is supported by documentary sources and a range of interviews with members, and employees of international actors and CSOs.
To date, there has been little research on the wider effects of this type of international presence and the consequences for social movement activity have been largely overlooked. This study analyses the influence of international actors on two levels. The first is seen via the impact of international actors on political opportunities. The second is seen via the strategic decisions made in response to the international presence, by the case studies. Although the international presence generally increases political opportunities, the level of opportunities in Afghanistan and Kosovo is still low. Both case studies have taken the decision to participate in electoral politics alongside their existing activities in an attempt to exert a greater level of influence. The study concludes that international actors play a key role in shaping social movement strategy within new protectorates, but that this influence often occurs in unexpected and indirect ways.