The New Dogs of War

The New Dogs of War examines the rise of nonstate actors in global security, challenging traditional notions of military power and state sovereignty.

In The New Dogs of War, Ward Thomas explores the evolving landscape of military power, emphasizing the rise of militias and paramilitary groups that often surpass national governments in influence. These nonstate actors, along with private military contractors, have begun to undertake missions that were previously the domain of traditional armed forces. This shift has significant implications for global security, as terrorist organizations with extensive reach increasingly shape the strategies of even the most powerful nations.

Thomas delves into the historical context of this phenomenon, tracing the transformation of international norms since the eighteenth century. The Westphalian model, which traditionally confined the legitimate use of force to states, faces challenges in light of the changes that occurred post-World War II. The author argues that these normative shifts have led to a 'crisis of coherence' regarding the rules governing nonstate violence, allowing various groups to exploit this ambiguity to assert their power.

Through detailed case studies, The New Dogs of War presents a comprehensive analysis of nonstate militias, transnational terrorist networks, and private military contractors. By examining these entities as interconnected aspects of a larger trend, Thomas highlights a fundamental shift in the understanding of who can legitimately wield military force, marking a pivotal moment in the history of international relations.