The Absent are Always Wrong

The Friendship Motive and Canada’s Participation in Nato’s Operation in Libya

Bibliographic Data

ID17831769
AuthorsStéfanie Von Hlatky (0000-0002-4007-3859, Queen's University, corresponding author), Thomas Juneau (0000-0003-3924-6633, University of Ottawa)
Year2026
Volume6
Issue2
Publication date2026-03-04
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueGlobal Studies Quarterly (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 2634-3797 • E-ISSN: 2634-3797
PublisherOxford University Press (OUP) (PUBLISHER)
DOI10.1093/isagsq/ksag053
OpenAlexW7154473205
LanguageEN
References cited17

In this article, we explore the friendship motive in coalition warfare. Specifically, we refer to decisions about the use of force that are more about strengthening bilateral relationships than national assessments of conflict dynamics. Empirically, we examine Canada’s participation in Operation Unified Protector (OUP), NATO’s 2011 intervention in Libya. OUP offers a relevant case study for understanding coalitions of democratic states going to war, given that the United States was reluctant to play a leadership role and keen to see allies shoulder a greater share of the burden. Drawing on documentary evidence and 27 interviews, the case suggests that allies contribute to multinational operations to improve alliance relationships. If that is the rationale for participation, opting out can be costly. As the saying goes, the absent are always wrong. How might the friendship motive change in a world where the United States has moved away from its traditional alliances? This case offers lessons on how allies can assess the trade-offs of a changing relationship with Washington

Adversarial system · Alliance · Democracy · Friendship · Multinational corporation · European and Russian Geopolitical Military Strategies · International Relations and Foreign Policy · Peacebuilding and International Security

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