ABSTRACT
The term quasi-state, in its classical use, remains vague and problematic; some scholars use the term exclusively to refer to recognised quasi-states, and others for unrecognised quasi-states. This chapter highlights fundamental distinctions between the two types of states and provides new criteria which go beyond the traditional understanding of quasi-states and statehood. Three sets of criteria are developed: for recognised quasi-states, for unrecognised quasi-states, and for negative and positive patronage. These new models, that help to understand the rise and fall of quasi-states, are used throughout this book to analyse the nature of the Iraqi-Kurdish conflict.
