Summary

• Two trends dominate today’s international arena: globalization and fragmentation. Although diametrically opposed, both trends dilute the monopoly on the use of force.

• Non-state actors challenge existing states from different perspectives. However, among the list of non-state actors, only criminal networks prefer a weak/corrupt state or no state at all.

• The argument that sovereign states and a monopoly on the use of force are passé in the twenty-first century has gained currency in recent years. But the horrific implications of accepting this position are clearly evident in countries and regions where they are missing.

• Violent conflict precludes development and undermines prosperity. Although this does not mean that a sovereign state with a monopoly on the use of force always produces prosperity, the link between between the two and sustainable prosperity is evident.

• We should focus on concreteways to improve legitimacy and strengthen the effectiveness of the state in its monopoly on the use of force. We should also push states to work together to create strong international regimes to manage and mitigate the transnational threats.