COUNTER INSURGENCY

Counter insurgency (COIN) operations refer to military, paramilitary, political, economic, psychological, and civic actions taken by a government to defeat insurgency. Insurgency is a form of armed rebellion against an established authority, often characterized by guerrilla tactics and aiming to weaken and destabilize the government. COIN operations are complex and multifaceted, involving not just combat operations, but also efforts to win the “hearts and minds” of the local population. This includes building local governance structures, providing services, and improving economic conditions, all aimed at reducing the appeal of the insurgent cause.
The strategic focus of COIN is typically on the population rather than the enemy, seeking to isolate insurgents from their base of support which involves both direct and indirect methods to address the root causes of the insurgency, and foster stability and security.