ABSTRACT
Large parts of Africa are currently plagued by endemic violence. These conflicts differ in intensity and causes, but have some features in common. While the official government is involved in most cases, the contenders include a motley crowd of militias, armed rebel groups and protagonists of organized crime, vying for power and resources. Moreover, the parties do not only carry out attacks against each other, but also often terrorize the civilian population. These dire situations epitomize the growing problem of failed States.
