LECTURE 4
Military Intervention and Security
OUTLINE:
I. Causes of Military Intervention
II. The Military in Power
III. Bringing Dictators to Justice
IV. Crime, Violence and Insecurity
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I. Causes of Military Intervention
Coup d’etat: “strike at the state”; military takeover of power
1. The Nature of the Armed Force: explains the frequencies and the nature of military
intervention based on the internal characteristics of the military itself. (e.g training, bank
grants of officers)
a) Origins of Officers: officers of humble origins are more likely to intervene in politics on
behalf of the interests of the popular
b) Training: officers whose training focuses on internal rather than external threats are
more likely to intervene in politics.
c) Civic Action: military personal to participate in local development initiatives are more
likely to intervene in politics
2. The Nature of Civilian Regimes: argues that military intervention is more likely in weak
political systems that are characterized by instability
a) Political Institutions: when civilian governments enjoy widespread support and there are
effective channels of social representation, military intervention is unlikely
b) Political Culture: societies whose believe that democracy should be the only game in
town are less likely to support military coups
c) Level of Development: poorer countries are more likely to suffer from military
takeovers.
GNP per capita <$500 = successful coup attempt (lower income)
CNP per capita >$1000 = unsuccessful coup attempts (lower middle)
GNP per capita >$3000 = no coup attempt (upper middle)
II. The Military in Power – does military rule produce greater political stability and
social economic development?
Balance sheet: 3 main justifications
Combating Corruption:
Establishing Stability: government demonstration, short – term is good and long – term is
bad.
Promoting Economic Development:
KEY: the endurance of military governments depends largely on their economic
performance.