Explain the concept of globalized intrastate war and discuss four important ways this form of war differs from the traditional or classical understanding of war.

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

In globalized intrastate wars, organized violence is less political and more economic because the motive is to control valuable resources. These resources include diamonds (Sierra Leone), the production and distribution of drugs (Colombia and Mexico), timber (East Timor), oil (the Niger Delta), and valuable minerals and ore such as coltan, used in the manufacture of electronic products (Democratic Republic of the Congo). Sometimes called "resource wars," these conflicts differ from classic war because (1) they include multiple types of fighting units such as paramilitary forces, mercenaries, self-defense units, militaries from other countries, and even peacekeeping forces; (2) they frequently target civilians, often by employing sexual violence; (3) they often conscript child soldiers; and (4) they establish connections between in-country actors, such as local warlords and traders in the valuable commodity, and international players such as corporations, banking interests, and global agencies such as the United Nations. In many respects, resource wars are similar to organized crime but on a larger scale.