Armed Groups

Catalog description

Nonstate armed grounds have increasingly come to dominate the global political scene since the end of the Cold War, with many flourishing in regions characterized by weak, failing and failed states. A survey of armed groups in the late 20th and 21st century suggests a complex web of relationships and factors not only sustaining their survival, but also aiding in their growth and proliferation. This course studies the evolution of 21st century armed groups, with a primary focus on armed groups in the Near East and North Africa. Students taking this course will learn how armed groups are generally established, and how they are structured and operate (incorporating examples of said groups from around the world), before delving into the specificities of how those operating in the MENA region have not only contributed to regional security complexes, but also how they impact on matters of international security.