Foreign Fighters and Multinational Armies: From Civil Conflicts to Coalition Wars, 1848-2015

This book explores new historical research on foreign soldiers, covering the early modern period to the present, and examining the experiences and challenges of both foreigners and host countries. It highlights the significance of these trends to the contemporary debate on foreign fighters.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 234 pages
Publication date: 29 January 2024
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive book delves into the captivating realm of foreign soldiers, offering a comprehensive overview of the early modern period and presenting a rich collection of case studies spanning over 175 years and traversing five continents. The term 'foreign fighter' has gained widespread recognition in recent years, fueled by the insurgencies in Afghanistan, Iraq, the Syrian Civil War, and the rise and fall of the Islamic State group. These conflicts have sparked a keen public interest in the phenomenon of individuals leaving their home countries to participate in foreign conflicts. The origins, motivations, activities, and potential dangers posed by foreign fighters have become subjects of intense debate, drawing contributions from politicians, military personnel, the media, political scientists, legal scholars, and, notably, historians.

To address this gap in historical research, this volume presents ten essays that showcase cutting-edge historical inquiry into foreign military labor. The primary objective of the volume is to enhance our understanding of the experiences and challenges faced by both foreign fighters and the host countries, particularly their armed forces. By highlighting the significance of these trends to the contemporary debate on foreign fighters, the book aims to contribute to a more nuanced and informed perspective on this complex phenomenon.

The chapters in this book were originally published as a special issue of the esteemed journal European Review of History. This collaboration ensures that the insights and perspectives presented herein are of the highest academic caliber and contribute to the ongoing dialogue on international security and conflict.

In conclusion, this book is a valuable resource for scholars, researchers, policymakers, and anyone interested in gaining a deeper understanding of the complex dynamics of foreign soldiers and their impact on global security. By exploring the historical roots, motivations, and consequences of foreign fighter movements, the volume provides valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities facing our world today.

Weight: 453g
Dimension: 246 x 174 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032233826