Issue

Governance

The balance of power between strong states was for decades the dominant issue in discussions of international security. But today, it is fragile states that are seen by many as posing potentially greater threats. Weak infrastructures, internal conflict, and lack of economic development provide fertile ground for trafficking, piracy, terrorism, nuclear proliferation, disease pandemics, regional tensions, and even genocide.

As a result, there is a growing movement in the international community to find comprehensive ways to promote stronger states, as well as more effective solutions to deal with those that are already on the brink of failure.

In Governance, you'll find reporting from around the world—from East Timor to Haiti, from Guinea Bissau to Afghanistan. The reporting demonstrates the dangers weak states pose—and also the international interventions that appear to be making a difference.

 

Governance

September 01, 2006 | Pulitzer Center

Mining in the DRC

Carlos Villalon

Mining is becoming a growing industry in DRC where many farmers are switching jobs to join the destructive industry.

August 31, 2006 | Pulitzer Center

Coltan Processing

Coltan mining continues to grow in the DRC. Coltan is commonly used in mobile phones, and the DRC counts for one of the world's largest coltan reserves.

August 30, 2006 | Pulitzer Center

Victims of War

Carlos Villalon, for the Pulitzer Center.

Women and children have been raped systematically by the armed forces in the conflict. Also, about 1200 people die daily because of non-direct fighting, according to some NGOs.

July 30, 2006 | Radio Canada

Congo: Des Élections à Haut Risque

Pays de 62 millions d'habitants, la république démocratique du Congo s'étend sur un territoire grand comme le Québec et l'Ontario mis ensemble. Elle recèle énormément de richesses naturelles, exploitées par des compagnies privées sans que le pays n'en voie vraiment les bénéfices.