Which aspect is emphasized in COIN operations?

In Counterinsurgency (COIN) operations, the emphasis is on gaining and maintaining popular support. This approach recognizes that the legitimacy of the local government and the support of the civilian population are crucial to achieving long-term stability and success. Insurgent groups often rely on popular discontent to grow their influence, so COIN strategies focus on addressing the grievances of the populace and providing security, essential services, and governance. Maintaining the trust and loyalty of the population helps to isolate insurgents and diminishes their support base, which is critical for undermining their efforts.

Total military domination, establishing authoritarian control, or infiltrating enemy leadership do not align with the principles of COIN operations. Instead, those approaches can often exacerbate tensions and drive the population toward insurgent sympathies rather than fostering an environment of trust and cooperation necessary for effective counterinsurgency.