Weak state
In contrast to a failed state, a weak state is a nation whose government or institutions are unable, or unwilling, to provide a significant set of essential public services, including just and legitimate government, physical security, food and health, and minimal economic development. A failed state, provides essentially none.[1] Susan Rice, a former U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, has written extensively on them, observing poverty is usually the core problem. Most, but certainly not all, are in Africa. [2]
Weak states usually have sufficient government to work with international organizations, although corruption and logistics may limit the efficiency with which aid can be delivered. Some weak states have a stronger political party organization than a government. [3]
They may have insurgencies or be involved in war across their borders. Security assistance, or even military operations, may be a risky but sometimes effective outside intervention.
References
- ↑ Susan Rice and Stewart Patrick (2008), Index of State Weakness in the Developing World, Brookings Institution
- ↑ Susan Rice and Stewart Patrick (7 March 2008), "The "Weak States" Gap", Washington Post
- ↑ Jason Sumich, João Honwana (2007), Strong Party, Weak State? Frelimo and State Survival Through the Mozambican Civil War, Governance and Social Development Resource Centre