The Mercenary: An Instrument of State Coercion

The book "The Mercenary: A New History of an Old Profession" challenges the view that mercenaries are marginalized actors in international relations and suggests that they are a coercive instrument of state power. The growing reliance on military and security contractors by the US, Russia, and China indicates that mercenaries will remain a key player in International Politics in the 21st century.

Format: Hardback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 15 June 2023
Publisher: Oxford University Press

Since the French Revolution and the emergence of national armies, the mercenary has been portrayed as a controversial and marginalized figure in international relations. The Mercenary challenges this perception, arguing that while often relegated to the periphery of Great Power politics, the mercenary remained a potent tool of state power willing to discreetly advance the client's foreign policy when required. This assertion has become more apparent than ever in the contemporary era.

This book provides a novel perspective on the future of the mercenary as a tool of state coercion, shedding light on the reasons behind the resurgence of mercenaries in the 21st century. The beginning of the 21st century has witnessed a renewed interest in mercenaries across the political spectrum. The increasing reliance of the US, Russia, and China on military and security contractors indicates that the mercenary continues to play a significant role in International Politics, emerging from the shadows to contribute to the expansion of state influence on the global stage. Contrary to popular belief, the mercenary is not destined to be marginalized but rather is set to become increasingly active.

One of the key reasons for the resurgence of mercenaries is the growing demand for specialized military expertise and resources. With the complexity of modern warfare, governments and organizations are increasingly turning to private contractors to fill gaps in their own military capabilities. Mercenaries offer a cost-effective solution, as they can be hired for short-term contracts and do not require the same level of training and retention costs as regular military personnel. Moreover, mercenaries are often equipped with the latest technology and weapons, giving them an edge in combat.

Another factor contributing to the resurgence of mercenaries is the increasing prevalence of small wars and conflicts. These conflicts are often characterized by their complexity, irregular nature, and limited scope, making them difficult for traditional military forces to handle. Mercenaries, with their flexibility and adaptability, are well-suited to these types of operations, as they can be deployed quickly and efficiently to achieve specific objectives.

Furthermore, the growing influence of non-state actors in international relations has also played a role in the resurgence of mercenaries. Non-state actors, such as terrorist organizations, rebel groups, and private military companies, are increasingly seeking to leverage the power of the mercenary to achieve their goals. Mercenaries offer these actors a means of acquiring military expertise and resources that they may not have access to otherwise, allowing them to carry out operations that would otherwise be impossible.

Despite the potential benefits of using mercenaries, there are also concerns about their ethical and legal implications. Mercenaries are often hired for private gain, rather than for the public good, and their actions can have unintended consequences for the local populations and the broader international community. Moreover, there is a risk of mercenaries engaging in human rights abuses and other violations of international law, which can further exacerbate conflicts and undermine peace efforts.

To address these concerns, it is important to regulate the use of mercenaries and ensure that they are held accountable for their actions. Governments and international organizations should establish clear guidelines and regulations for the use of mercenaries, including the conditions under which they can be deployed and the responsibilities they must uphold. Additionally, there should be mechanisms in place to monitor and investigate any allegations of human rights abuses or other violations committed by mercenaries.

In conclusion, the mercenary has been viewed as a controversial and marginalized figure in international relations since the French Revolution and the rise of national armies. However, The Mercenary challenges this perception, suggesting that while often relegated to the periphery of Great Power politics, the mercenary remains a potent tool of state power willing to discreetly advance the client's foreign policy when required. The resurgence of mercenaries in the 21st century is driven by the growing demand for specialized military expertise and resources, the increasing prevalence of small wars and conflicts, and the growing influence of non-state actors in international relations. While there are concerns about their ethical and legal implications, it is important to regulate the use of mercenaries and ensure that they are held accountable for their actions. By doing so, we can mitigate the risks associated with the use of mercenaries and work towards a more peaceful and stable world.

Weight: 562g
Dimension: 240 x 158 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780198872788