Sensemaking Processes in Complex Peace Operations: A Means of Adapting to the Dynamism of ‘the Local’

Abstract

This article examines sensemaking in complex peace operations. The article’s key argument is that adaptation to ‘the local’ and its complexity requires sensemaking, and that sensemaking helps to disrupt conflict dynamism and prevent conflicts. The study’s theoretical underpinnings are linked to the concept of sensemaking and its further development. The findings are based on eleven in-depth interviews with commanders who have concrete command experience in peace operations. The research findings describe four processes–sensegiving, sensebreaking, sensedrawing and sensekeeping–that are part of the sensemaking entity. Each process entails practices in which sense is embedded, negotiated and regenerated to be shared, in order to work with change, adapt to local necessities and sustain peace. Theoretically, the article contributes to the existing understanding of complex, ongoing and longstanding crises in general and adaptive and proactive sensemaking, in which ‘the local’ is emphasized, in particular.