War-weariness is the
public or political disapproval for the continuation of a prolonged conflict or
war. The causes normally involve the intensity of
casualties—financial,
civilian, and
military. It also occurs when a belligerent has the ability to easily leave the conflict yet continues to stay. War-weariness normally leads to a distrust in
government or military leadership and can spark protest and
anti-war movements. It can also be fueled when a belligerent is found guilty of
war crimes, which can create domestic and international backlash. Rates of enlistment and the
morale of the armed-forces are often affected by war-weariness.