Mercenaries and Modern Warfare

Abstract

Contemporary conflicts and wars involve both state and non-state actors employing power across multiple domains in pursuit of victory for their side or their nation. Economic power and financial resources have become decisive factors that transform warfare into a new form often described as private warfare. Although the use of mercenaries has existed since ancient times—whether openly or covertly—the employment of such forces in modern conflicts for private gain contributes to the prolongation of hostilities. In the future, this trend may evolve into a long-term threat to global peace, as considerations related to humanitarian principles and human rights tend to diminish.

Moreover, enforcing legal measures against these groups is exceedingly difficult, as much of their activity is conducted in secrecy. Consequently, as private conflicts expand onto the international stage, the world may eventually witness wars driven primarily by private interests emerging in various regions across the globe.