19th Annual Student Research Conference
Social Science
For the Good of the Mission or the Employer: Increased Employment of Private Security Companies in Iraq
Ryan S. Lewis
Dr. Paul Parker, Faculty Mentor
Who benefits from the United State government’s employment of private security contractors in Iraq? Throughout the reconstruction process in Iraq, high threat levels have prompted the increased employment of security companies for service support duties and defensive operations traditionally assigned to US military forces. While the Department of Defense has assured hiring security contractors is equally efficient and cheaper than deploying conventional military units, other complications have emerged. Crimes committed against Iraqi civilians, friendly-fire incidents, increasing contract costs, and minimal military oversight have developed into substantial problems for the companies and their US employers. Despite military complications, monetary setbacks, and numerous calls for reform, the policy has continued to receive support from the Bush Administration. This paper seeks to address potential alternative reasons for such support by considering not only the Administration's position, but also the political, bureaucratic , and military perspectives.
Keywords: Iraq, US, Policy, Private, Security, Aministration, Political, Employment
Topic(s):Political Science
Presentation Type: Oral Paper
Session: 56-1
Location: OP 2210
Time: 2:45