Political Will for War

Political will for war is a concept predominantly used as an explanatory variable covering the intangible aspects of a state in its decision to engage in military activities against another entity. Although willpower plays a key role in all decision-making processes, its role is indispensable specifically in warfare—a costly sociopolitical enterprise. Political will for war, in this regard, is an overarching concept referring to the complex social and political issues that affect the endorsement and endurance of war campaigns.

The main assumption is that the strategic resources required for states to wage war are not limited to material ones. Hence, the concept of political will for war covers various issues ranging from the political determination of decision makers and to the social support of the population ...