USQ: University of Southern Queensland

The new autonomous corporate warriors and their implications for humanity

Collins, Pauline (2007) The new autonomous corporate warriors and their implications for humanity. Yearbook of New Zealand Jurisprudence, 9 . pp. 15-45. ISSN 1174-4243 (In Press)

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Official URL: http://www.waikato.ac.nz/php/research.php?mode=parent&doc=New+Zealand+Yearbook+of+Jurisprudence

Identification Number or DOI: ISSN No. 1174-4243

Abstract

The post-Cold War rise of private military contractors (PMCs) and their impact on the laws of war, in particular International Humanitarian Law (IHL), requires investigation. The need for accountability together with the repercussions for the Geneva Conventions and state sovereignty is immediate. This article is aimed at uncovering some of the implications this growing phenomenon has for society. Issues surround the sufficiency of current international law to regulate PMCs acting in war zones. The development of the laws of war from the Christian ages through Rousseau’s ‘social contract’ to the current times of corporate privatisation of previously held sovereign state domains is considered. The likelihood of successfully subjecting PMCs to prosecution for war crimes in the current climate of regulation is minimal. The idea of states using PMCs for inappropriate gain is discussed along with the threat created by this phenomenon to the stability of national armies. The author concludes the need for investigation, review and control of the privatisation of the military is urgent.

Item Type:Article (DEST Category C)
Additional Information:Awaiting copyright advice.
Uncontrolled Keywords:international humanitarian law, private military corporations
Subjects:390000 Law, Justice and Law Enforcement > 390100 Law > 390111 International Law
390000 Law, Justice and Law Enforcement > 390300 Justice and Legal Studies > 390303 Human Rights
390000 Law, Justice and Law Enforcement > 399900 Other Law, Justice and Law Enforcement
ID Code:2233
Deposited By:Ms Pauline Collins
Deposited On:11 Oct 2007 11:00
Last Modified:31 Oct 2007 09:16

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