‘Ownership’ means differently to everyone --- From observation of negotiations with non-state actors and NSAGs especially in Indonesia, we should not assume that members of the groups will share similar sense of ownerships with their leaders or representatives who take part in the negotiation. The highest level might have signed a cease-fire agreement, but the ground troops, foot soldiers and the rank and file of the groups might continue to fight, which could halt the implementation of or even nullify the agreement. This can be attributed to weak chain of command or part of the strategy to quietly undermine the negotiation; however, the groups gain popularity by taking part in the process.

There are academic studies (including terror groups in the past and present) on the NSA and NSAG’s structures, group behaviours etc which can be useful references. Unfortunately, the state military often behave the same.

Source author: Ivy Susanti ivysusanti@gmail.com