Unrecognized States: A Theory of Self Determination and Foreign Influence

44 Pages Posted: 6 Sep 2014 Last revised: 27 Dec 2015

See all articles by Kristy Buzard

Kristy Buzard

Syracuse University - Department of Economics

Benjamin A. T. Graham

University of Southern California - School of International Relations

Benjamin Horne

University of California, San Diego (UCSD)

Date Written: November 19, 2015

Abstract

Unrecognized states are characterized by stagnant or crumbling economies and political instability, often serve as havens for illicit trade, and challenge the territorial sovereignty of recognized states. Their persistence is both intellectually puzzling and normatively problematic, but unrecognized statehood can be a remarkably stable outcome, persisting for decades. Our four-player model reveals that unrecognized statehood emerges as an equilibrium outcome when a patron state is willing and able to persistently invest resources to sustain it. We assess options available to actors in the international community who seek to impose their preferred outcomes in these disputes and find that, although sanctions are the most frequently employed, they can often lead to renewed conflict instead of the intended resolution.

Keywords: unrecognized states, quasi-states, de facto states, recognition, sovereignty, secession

Suggested Citation

Buzard, Kristy and Graham, Benjamin A. T. and Horne, Benjamin, Unrecognized States: A Theory of Self Determination and Foreign Influence (November 19, 2015). Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=2491944 or http://dx.doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.2491944

Kristy Buzard

Syracuse University - Department of Economics ( email )

Syracuse, NY 13244-1020
United States

HOME PAGE: http://kristybuzard.com

Benjamin A. T. Graham (Contact Author)

University of Southern California - School of International Relations ( email )

3518 Trousdale Parkway
VKC 330
Los Angeles, CA California 90089-0043
United States
2137420281 (Fax)

HOME PAGE: http://dornsife.usc.edu/profile/benjamin-a-t-graham/

Benjamin Horne

University of California, San Diego (UCSD) ( email )

9500 Gilman Drive
Mail Code 0502
La Jolla, CA 92093-0112
United States

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