guerrillaoorlogen

Guerrilla warfare, sometimes rendered as guerrillaoorlogen in Dutch, is a form of irregular warfare in which small, agile groups coordinate to fight a larger, conventional armed force. Guerrilla actors rely on mobility, surprise, and knowledge of local terrain, employing ambushes, raids, sabotage, and hit-and-run attacks to sap the enemy's strength and legitimacy rather than seek a decisive conventional battle. Their operations are typically complemented by political mobilization and support from local populations, which can provide shelter, intelligence, and resources.

The approach emphasizes protracted conflict rather than quick victories. Organization varies widely, from loosely connected cells to semi-formal armies with political wings. Guerrilla campaigns often emerge in contexts of colonialism, occupation, or civil conflict where the state cannot quickly project comprehensive governance across the territory.

Historiography and practice span multiple regions and eras. Notable historical examples include the Peninsular War in Europe, where Spanish guerrillas harassed Napoleonic forces; Vietnam, Algeria, and Afghanistan in the 20th century; and various Latin American movements such as in Colombia, Peru, and Argentina. In contemporary settings, guerrilla warfare can blend with insurgencies and civil wars, sometimes evolving into conventional warfare as organizations attempt to seize or defend territory.

Counterinsurgency responses focus on securing populations, addressing grievances, and cutting off support networks, while aiming to minimize civilian harm. The legitimacy of guerrilla movements often hinges on political goals and governance, rather than military victory alone. International law prohibits targeting civilians and requires proportional, discriminate force, shaping both tactics and outcomes of guerrilla campaigns.