ABSTRACT
The just war tradition has well established principles for going to war (jus ad bellum) and actions in war (jus in bello). In recent years the development of a third segment for postconflict (jus post bellum) actions has emerged. Recognizing the desired end state as one in which there is security and a just peace requires a comprehensive post-conflict framework in which military activity and presence is only one part. The requirement for order, justice, and conciliation means that military actions and presence may extend beyond the cessation of hostilities and be a necessary part of post-conflict considerations. Military leaders must therefore begin with the end in mind even though the exact nature of it may be uncertain. The focus in planning and operations on the end state beyond “winning” the conflict is relatively new. Governments must now think about the jus post bellum phase in conjunction with and during the jus ad bellum phase. By so doing the likelihood of smoother overall operations and realizing the desired ends is enhanced.
