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Introduction
Before studying this weeks material, I was familiar with the term failed/fragile states, but my understanding was limited to its basic definition. I did not comprehensively understand the various factors that contribute to a states fragility, the consequences that result from it, and how it can be measured. The concept of failed/fragile states refers to countries that have lost their ability to provide essential services to their citizens, ensure security, and carry out effective governance (Harsch, 2020). These countries are characterized by poverty, conflict, and insecurity and often lack functioning government institutions and adequate infrastructure.
Discussion
Various states have lost their capability to serve their citizens, especially in promoting peace and leadership. An example of a failed/fragile state is Somalia, which has been plagued by conflict, poverty, and insecurity for over two decades (Michael & Guzansky, 2018). Its failed/fragile position results from the absence of a working national government and the states incapacity to offer its residents the most basic services. The country has been torn apart by warlordism, extremism, and piracy. It has struggled to establish a functioning government and provide its citizens with essential services such as healthcare, education, and security.
There are various impacts that failed/fragile states induce on the neighbors. The countrys instability leads to increased regional instability, the spread of conflict, and the flow of refugees across borders (Harsch, 2020). Consequently, these factors strain the resources of neighboring countries and exacerbate existing problems. For example, Somalias instability has contributed to the spread of extremism in the region, particularly with the rise of Al-Shabaab (Harsch, 2020). Additionally, the countrys piracy problem has significantly impacted shipping in the region and the wider world (Harsch, 2020). Therefore, a countrys failed/fragile status affects its neighbors by straining their resources, spreading extreme religions, and increasing the number of refugees in their borders.
Conclusion
The international community can take several steps to address the problems in failed/fragile states. One of the most important is to provide humanitarian assistance to alleviate suffering. This can include providing food, water, and medical aid to those in need. The international community can also support peacebuilding by mediating disputes, supporting negotiations, and promoting dialogue between different groups (Michael & Guzansky, 2018). Additionally, the international community can help promote good governance and the rule of law by supporting institutions and programs that strengthen the rule of law, reduce corruption, and improve transparency.
References
Harsch, M. (2020). Measuring State Fragility: A New Approach to Identifying and Strengthening Vulnerable Countries. Harvard University Press.
Michael, K., & Guzansky, Y. (2018). The dangers of failing middle east states. Middle East Quarterly, 25(2). Web.
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