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Since 1989, "comprehensive political settlements" aimed at ending longstanding internal conflicts in Central America, parts of Africa, and South-East Asia, have all included detailed provisions concerning the disarmament of rebel and government forces. Attempts at large-scale demobilization, however, have been largely unsuccessful. This depressing record provides the background for this book which examines critically the range of issues associated with disarming, demobilizing and reintegrating military forces into society after prolonged periods of civil war. The book derives lessons from recent failures, and assesses alternative strategies along with their institutional, political, and operational requirements.