Insurgency Success Factors and Rebel Legitimacy
CHAPTER 6: REBEL LEGITIMACY THROUGH ORGANIZATIONAL
CAPACITY
Rebel groups function like organizations in many ways. They depend upon adequate
procurement and management of resources, finances, and human capital. They are run by
individuals that develop different thought processes, motivations, and loyalties 261. They are often
driven by an ideological goal implemented through a hierarchical structure 262. They are also
driven by a code of conduct that dictates the actions and decisions of involved actors 263
264
The effectiveness or ineffectiveness of an insurgency's organizational management can
greatly contribute to its legitimacy in the eyes of civilians and external actors²
4. Rebel groups
that effectively manage legal systems, service delivery networks, and financial resources produce
higher external perceptions of the group's ability to function successfully as a legitimate political
actor. Greater levels of legitimacy in areas of organizational management contribute to trust
amongst external actors that the rebel group can responsibly receive and manage certain
financial, diplomatic, and political responsibilities 265. This trust opens avenues for external actors
to support rebel groups in ways that can contribute to success, such as provision of materials and
financing.
Three factors that most drastically influence rebel legitimacy in the area of organizational
management are implementation and use of law; ability to mobilize goods, services, and
programs; and propaganda and media campaigns.
Implementation and Use of Law
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