(A326) The Military Veterinarian's Role in Stabilization and Reconstruction Operations

Abstract

Stabilization and reconstruction operations in failed or failing states require a bottom-up approach, focusing on the population as the strategic center of gravity. This bottom-up approach must address the population's basic needs as defined by Dr. Abraham Maslow's “Hierarchy of Needs” and provide a long-term means of self-sufficiency, rather than creating an “aid dependent economy”. Focusing stabilization and reconstruction operations on agricultural and agricultural related projects provides relief from donor dependency, stimulates economic growth, and thwarts the power of spoilers. Military veterinary personnel are uniquely qualified to design and implement agricultural stabilization and reconstruction programs in conjunction with the host-state ministries and agencies across the full range of military operations. Early, sustained engagement by military veterinarians stimulates agricultural productivity, improves animal and human health, directly supports the population's hierarchy of needs on all levels, and accelerates stabilization operations by reducing the population's susceptibility to spoilers.