Johanna Söderström

I have recently concluded a project using life history interviews with veterans and ex-combatants from various countries (Colombia, Namibia and the USA). Part of this project focuses on the relationship between armed groups that turn into political parties and their individual members’ political mobilization. Another aspect of the project is focused on comparing post-demobilization experiences across the global South-North divide. This work has recently been published in a book (Living Politics after War). For more about the book, watch this video.

I am also very interested in methodology, and like exploring different forms of interviews, such as focus groups and life history interviews. See my publications for links to my publications on this. For instance, I have published an article that discusses the advantages of drawing a life diagram during life history interviews.

I am also researching such issues as political knowledge using survey data, the African taxpayer and taxation practices, and the longterm conditions of peace. In particular I am currently exploring conceptualizations of relational peace. In the past I have worked on DDR (disarmament, demobilization and reintegration) programs and how ex-combatants in Liberia participate in, and relate to, politics. Overall I am interested in questions in the intersection between democratization, peacebuilding and statebuilding, particularly as experienced from below.