Contributions to Security and Defence Studies

This book addresses critical questions in the field of terrorism studies that have long eluded consensus in the international community. It discusses why there is an abundance of definitions of terrorism and, on the other hand, the absence of a standard definition of terrorism reflected at the international level, shedding light on the elusive boundaries for achieving a global consensus.

The book's two compelling hypotheses pave the way for a fresh perspective on counterterrorism efforts. Firstly, the need for new legal frameworks that adapt to the evolving nature of terrorism, encompassing state-sponsored terrorism. Secondly, by examining the historical roots of terrorism, this book uncovers patterns that could reshape future counterterrorism strategies.

Drawing on interviews with 20 leading experts in terrorism studies from diverse backgrounds and regions, this book provides invaluable insights and ensures a well-rounded examination of the subject. It will appeal to students, scholars, and researchers of security studies, political science, international relations, and terrorism studies in particular, as well as policy-makers interested in exploring the complexities of countering terrorism in our ever-changing world.

This open access book is the outcome of a unique multinational effort organized by the Hamburg-based Defense AI Observatory (DAIO) to portray the current state of affairs regarding the use of artificial intelligence (AI) by armed forces around the world. The contributions span a diverse range of geostrategic contexts by providing in-depth case studies on Australia, Canada, China, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, India, Iran, Israel, Italy, Japan, the Netherlands, Russia, Singapore, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Taiwan, Turkey, Ukraine, the UK, and the United States. The book does not speculate about the future implications of AI on armed forces, but rather discusses how armed forces are currently exploring the potential of this emerging technology. By adopting a uniform analytical framework, each case study discusses how armed forces view defense AI; how they are developing AI-enhanced solutions, adapting existing structures and processes, and funding their defense AI endeavors; to what extent defense AI is already fielded and operated; and how soldiers and officers are being trained to work with AI.

This edited volume provides a multidisciplinary analysis of the failure of democratic state building in Afghanistan. Encompassing insights from diverse perspectives and different theoretical viewpoints—most importantly, those of Afghan nationals—the chapters address complex issues, including the extent of global hegemonic power, the efficacy of nation-building strategies, the clash between modernization and cultural legacies, and the intricate task of establishing enduring institutions amid pervasive clientelist networks. The volume is divided into sections addressing a key aspect of the situation: state institutions and society; insecurity and corruption; social and economic development; women’s rights. Drawing crucial lessons from a turbulent past to inform and guide future endeavors towards a stable, prosperous Afghanistan, this volume will be of interest to researchers and students of Middle East politics, peace and conflict studies, security studies, development, history, and sociology.

This open access volume explores Ukraine's challenges post-war, focusing on economic revival and sustainable development. Addressing scholars, policymakers, and practitioners the book discusses pivotal issues for the rebuilding of Ukraine, such as institutional changes, economic hurdles, social stability, and environmental rejuvenation.

The book highlights the inevitable need for Ukraine's institutional transformation, essential for EU and NATO integration. It goes on to examine the global geopolitical and economic repercussions and emphasizes the pivotal role of energy independence in the European landscape.

Through a multi-disciplinary lens encompassing political science, economics, and law, this book provides evidence-based insights and policy recommendations. Offering a comprehensive presentation of post-war challenges, it offers an invaluable guide for policymakers and practitioners interested in the complexities of Ukraine's reconstruction.

This is an open access book.

This book examines the political, diplomatic, and financial responses to the Russo-Ukraine War through the lens of Realist international relations theory. Analyzing the origins and ongoing dynamics of the conflict, the book sheds light on how the West - especially the EU and NATO - has reacted to the war and discusses the implications of its strategy. It critically explores the influence of national populism and internal disunity within the West, particularly against the background of rising Trumpism.

The book offers a fresh perspective on the geopolitical shifts reshaping power dynamics and traditional international relations. From Ukraine's military struggles to NATO’s challenges, it analyzes how the conflict has disrupted existing political norms. The book makes a case for rethinking the global political framework as the war continues to evolve and will appeal to students, scholars, and researchers of international relations and geopolitics. 

“This book offers a timely analysis of the Russo-Ukraine War and its transformative impact on global geopolitics. Examining the conflict's origins, strategies, and broader implications provides essential insights into shifting international dynamics and challenges to traditional geopolitical paradigms, making it an invaluable resource for understanding the current crisis and evolving frameworks of global relations.”

Lisheng Dong, Emeritus Professor at the University of Tartu and former Visiting Professor at the University of Zurich

“The West’s Response to the Ukraine War is a bravura performance. Highly recommended for public and academic libraries.”

Joseph M. Siracusa, Professor of Global Futures, Curtin University, Perth Australia 

This monograph addresses the role of criminal non-state actors in South America. In a departure from traditional analysis, the author notes that non-state actors that affect political and social life in the Global South are not always terrorist actors or the result of political disputes. In several countries, criminal actors with a high degree of complexity emerge, capable of performing violent actions that proportionally surpass the economy of crime. Furthermore, they are capable of carrying out actions beyond the state, in a transnational approach, connecting with criminal organizations in other countries and or even other violent non-state actors. This volume consolidates studies on criminal non-state actors in South America, analyzing their historical development, governance capacity, profiling key actors, and assessing their overall effect on international relations as a whole. As such, it will be useful to students and researchers interested in international security, criminology, Latin American studies, and peace and conflict studies.

This volume critically examines whether the United Kingdom, NATO, and the EU are equipped to engage in both defensive and offensive economic warfare. In an era where economic leverage is increasingly used as a tool of statecraft, nations worldwide are struggling with the complexities of economic warfare. The book discusses contested terminology and concepts, often blurred with geoeconomics, economic statecraft, and weaponized interdependence.

Through a thorough analysis of organizational structures, doctrines, and strategic cultures, the book explores the legitimacy and implications of using economic means to influence state behavior. As global actors ramp up their economic warfare capabilities, it questions whether such strategies are a necessary evolution or a disruptive force to international norms. 

The book will appeal to students, researchers, and scholars of international relations, political science, security studies, and defence studies, as well as policy-makers and practitioners interested in a better understanding of the future of global economic security.