Conflict Resolution through Force: The Case of Peru, 1980–1993

Abstract

This article examines the theory of ripeness and the case of the Peruvian Government and the Sendero Luminoso (Shining Path) guerrilla group. Its findings show that the conflict was resolved through force, never reaching the point of Mutually Hurting Stalemate (MHS) in which negotiations are constricted due to the reduced possibilities of advancing the conflict. To this end, it looks at the Clausewitz Trinity in both the Peruvian State and Shining Path to show how reason, chance, uncertainty, and passion must work harmonically under a Grand Strategy –concept taken from Colin Gray– to accomplish the ends pursued by the parties. It concludes that although Shining Path was unable to adapt, causing its fall, the State was only able to overcome the threat of the guerrilla group once all of the elements were integrated, working as a cohesive organism.