Failed states: causes and consequences. (1st January 2013)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Silva, Mario
• Is Part Of: International journal of public law and policy. Volume 3:Number 1(2013)
• Page Start: 63
• Page End: 103
• Publication Date: 2013-01-01
• Subjects: state failure -- policymakers -- trusteeship -- states -- human rights; Public law -- Periodicals; Political planning -- Periodicals; 342.005
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2044-7663

Abstract

This article provides a scholarly evaluation of structural competency gaps that cause state failure and impact the international community. Failed states suffer from overlapping characteristics of structural competency failure including healthcare, education, food, a legitimate police force and economic sustainability; economic inequalities; loss of legitimacy and corruption, lack of social cohesion; failure in rule of law, loss of security and territorial control and systemic political instability. The emergence of a concept of sovereignty requires review of the post-modern state. The new social human security compact, globalisation and state decline has redefined a new global order. It may be in the best for failed states to have the international community operate in shared sovereignty or trusteeship. This article argues that international actors attempting to 'fix' failed states must address the issues affecting structural competency that have caused state failure.