ABSTRACT
Reconstruction efforts in insecure environments create challenges for politicians, development experts, and ordinary citizens. It is difficult to promote economic growth without security, but without economic opportunities and growth, communities can enter a downward spiral of stagnation and desperation. Without jobs, people will turn to crime; yet crime stifles investment and the entrepreneurial spirit necessary to create jobs. In the wake of the September 11th, 2001 terrorist attacks, the threat presented by an insecure, underdeveloped, “failed state” became tragically evident. It is now clear that poverty and violence can affect the livelihoods and safety of those enjoying the affluence and security of stable democracies.
