Mary kaldor new wars

Mary Kaldor's concept of "New Wars" refers to a type of conflict that emerged in the 1990s and has continued to evolve since then. In her book "New and Old Wars: Organized Violence in a Global Era" (1999), Kaldor argues that traditional wars between states have given way to a new type of conflict characterized by:

  1. Non-state actors: New wars are fought by non-state actors, such as rebel groups, militias, and terrorist organizations, rather than by states.
  2. Internal conflicts: New wars are often internal conflicts, with the fighting taking place within a country's borders, rather than between states.
  3. Violence against civilians: New wars are characterized by violence against civilians, including massacres, rape, and forced displacement.
  4. Lack of clear goals: New wars often lack clear goals or objectives, and may be driven by a desire for power, resources, or revenge rather than a specific political or ideological agenda.
  5. Globalization: New wars are often linked to globalization, with conflicts fueled by the exploitation of natural resources, the illegal trade in weapons and drugs, and the manipulation of global financial systems.
  6. Networks and alliances: New wars involve complex networks and alliances between different groups, often with shifting allegiances and rivalries.
  7. Use of technology: New wars often involve the use of advanced technology, including drones, social media, and cyber warfare.

Kaldor argues that new wars are distinct from traditional wars in several ways. They are often more brutal and destructive, with a greater emphasis on violence against civilians. They also tend to be more protracted and complex, with multiple actors and interests involved.

Examples of new wars include:

Kaldor's concept of new wars has been influential in shaping our understanding of contemporary conflict and has implications for international relations, peacekeeping, and humanitarian intervention.