Political Violence: A Global Perspective
Understanding Political Violence
Political violence encompasses a broad spectrum of illicit acts driven by political motivations, ranging from interstate wars to rebellions. Unlike criminal violence, political violence seeks to achieve political objectives, often involving the use of force or coercion.
In recent years, acceptance of political violence has surged, leading to a rise in terrorist attacks, mass protests, and other forms of unrest. The consequences of political violence extend beyond its immediate human toll, damaging infrastructure, disrupting economies, and fueling instability.
Key Findings
- Political violence differs from criminal violence in its political motivations.
- Acceptance of political violence has increased over the past five years.
- Political violence and related conspiracies have significant negative impacts on society.
Types of Political Violence
Stathis Kalyvas identifies eleven types of political violence:
- Interstate war
- Civil war
- Terrorism
- Political assassination
- Military coup
- Mass protest
- Rebellion
Historical Statistics
The 20th century was marked by significant political violence:
- Approximately 60-80 million people died in wars.
- An estimated 100 million more perished due to state violence.
Conclusion
Political violence remains a global challenge, threatening lives, disrupting societies, and undermining stability. Understanding its causes, manifestations, and consequences is crucial for developing effective strategies to prevent and mitigate its impacts.
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