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Abstract
Intelligence, an integral part of the state system, means the processed information primarily collected covertly by state agents and analyzed mainly through human endeavors for the purpose of security and national interests of states. Intelligence is more than simple information that empowers policy-makers to undertake policies for the states; intelligence connotes secrecy, and states do not want to share certain matters with the public. Therefore, people often think about how intelligence interacts with peace, which this exploratory article attempts to answer. It argues that their relationship is less straightforward but complex when considered from a broader perspective of peace. As intelligence is for the state, adequately analysed intelligence could ensure the superiority of the state actors in handling conflicting issues and give confidence to them to act and negotiate any issue with advanced information that helps manage conflicts when required, even without resorting to violence. Nevertheless, intelligence failure could be a great source of disappointment for the state as it would bring misery to people. Faulty, biased or inappropriate intelligence is more dangerous than no intelligence and causes severe harm to humanity. However, states are responsible for ensuring their citizens' human security and well-being and maintaining a standard of human rights. Under some conditions, ill-fitted intel reports could lead to peacelessness—as secrecy and operations could undermine individual freedom. In a cautious approach, the UN has recently considered collecting and analyzing tactical intelligence from different fragile contexts where peacekeepers are posted to protect civilians, prevent conflict and maintain and build peace, meaning intelligence is valuable for peace workers too.