Introduction

In the 1970s, the state was already the subject of an ongoing debate, but one which focused on different aspects to those which would be discussed two decades later. Today, the form of government is questioned and the withdrawal of the state is on the agenda, whereas 20 years ago the debate centred on the nature of the state and the state building process. The concerns, especially among young nations, focused on which type of state system would best guarantee the coming into being of an organised nation, socially integrated and with an economic structure capable of ensuring rapid development.