Categorization of States Beyond Strong and Weak

Authors

  • Peter Tikuisis Defence Research and Development Canada, Toronto; and Norman Paterson School of International Affairs, Carleton University, Ottawa https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2636-2929
  • David Carment Norman Paterson School of International Affairs, Carleton University, Ottawa, Canada; and Centre for Global Cooperation, Kate Hamburger Kolleg

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5334/sta.483

Abstract

The discourse on poor state performers has suffered from widely varying definitions on what distinguishes certain weak states from others. Indices that rank states from strong to weak conceal important distinctions that can adversely affect intervention policy. This deficiency is addressed by grouping states according to their performance on three dimensions of statehood: authority, legitimacy, and capacity. The resultant categorization identifies brittle states that are susceptible to regime change, impoverished states often considered as aid darlings, and fragile states that experience disproportionately high levels of violent internal conflict. It also provides a quantifiable means to analyze transitions from one state type to another for more insightful intervention policy.

Author Biography

Peter Tikuisis, Defence Research and Development Canada, Toronto; and Norman Paterson School of International Affairs, Carleton University, Ottawa

Peter Tikuisis completed his Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering at the University of Toronto in 1981. He was a defence scientist at Defence Research & Development Canada, Toronto Research Centre until 2015. He currently holds an emeritus defence scientist position at DRDC Toronto and is an adjunct research professor at the Norman Paterson School of International Affairs, Carleton University, Ottawa. He has published research in bubble physics, cold physiology, soldier performance, and most recently on state fragility.

 

(Can be contacted at either: peter.tikuisis@drdc-rddc.gc.ca or p.tikusis@gmail.com)

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Published

2017-09-28

Issue

Vol. 6 No. 1 (2017)

Section

Research Article

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Copyright (c) 2017 The Author(s)

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