Failed States: Typology by Jean-Germain Gros
Failed States (IV): A Typology by Jean-Germain Gros (II)
Jean-Germain Gros identifies five distinct typologies of failed states:
1. Anarchic States
These states lack a centralized authority, resulting in a lack of clear patterns of violence from sub-state militias. Conflicts often revolve around short-term goals like controlling specific regions or neighborhoods. Examples: Liberia, Somalia
2. Phantom or Mirage States
Similar to anarchic states, phantom states possess only a semblance of authority, often limited to security necessary for regime protection. Other state functions like economy, trade, and infrastructure are largely absent. Example: Former Zaire
3. Anaemic States
These states have a centralized authority, but official institutions struggle to project power beyond the capital. This can be due to insurgencies or a lack of established “engines of modernity.” Examples: Haiti, Cambodia
4. Captured States
Unlike the previous three, captured states have a strong centralized authority. However, this authority is controlled by specific interests that serve the elites rather than the citizens. Example: Rwanda during the 1994 genocide
5. Aborted States
These states failed to achieve full territorial control upon independence, leading to internal conflicts and civil wars. Large areas may be under the control of insurgent groups. Examples: Mozambique, Angola, Former Yugoslavia
Factors Associated with Failed States
Jean-Germain Gros outlines five factors commonly associated with failed states:
1. Economic Bad Performance
Failed states often experience low economic growth and GNP. Example: Somalia, Rwanda, and Haiti had some of the lowest growth rates between 1965 and 1988.
2. Lack of Social Synergy
High social dislocation, marked by extreme income inequality and a near-absent middle class, can lead to political extremism.
3. Authoritarianism
Social problems often lead to authoritarian rule, where a small elite controls the population against its interests.
4. Militarism
Authoritarian regimes in failed states are often militaristic, with armed forces ensuring control. This can lead to a disproportionate allocation of resources to the military. Example: Haiti devoted up to 40% of its budget to its army.
5. Environmental Degradation
Environmental issues can contribute to “Malthusian crises,” where resources are insufficient for the population. Examples: Rwanda’s high population density and Somalia’s limited arable land.