The term 'nation-building' has experienced a remarkable renaissance
since the early 1990s. It has been used to describe and to justify the
military interventions in Somalia, Afghanistan and Iraq. Linked to the
idea of 'failed' or 'failing' states, the concept is used to hide and
legitimise a whole range of diverse policies, allowing foreign powers to
control and reshape countries in areas of conflict.
Currently the international debate on nation building is heavily
dominated by US actors and authors, especially by writers connected to
the Bush administration or its policies. This book presents academic and
political alternatives, presenting a critical view from 'Old Europe'.
The book combines academic research and analysis with policy
orientation, with contributors from both fields. It clarifies the
terminology distinguishing developmental, peace-related, imperial and
analytical approaches to nation-building. Highlighting its connections
to globalization, democracy, ethnic and religious minorities, the
contributors consider case studies such as Somalia, the Balkans,
Afghanistan, Iraq and Nigeria.