Journal Article - The SAIS Review of International Affairs

The Virtues and Vices of Fixed Territorial Ownership

| Summer-Fall 2007

Abstract

Today, territorial ownership of states is essentially fixed, in marked contrast to earlier periods in history. This change has affected states in two very different ways. In regions in which most states are socio-politically strong, fixed territorial ownership is a blessing. It enhances peace, stability, and cooperation between states. In regions in which most states are socio-politically weak, however, fixed territorial ownership is largely a curse. It perpetuates and exacerbates states' weakness, and contributes to internal conflicts that often spill overacross international borders.

For more information on this publication: Please contact International Security
For Academic Citation: Atzili, Boaz. “The Virtues and Vices of Fixed Territorial Ownership.” The SAIS Review of International Affairs, vol. XXVII. no. 2. (Summer-Fall 2007):
95-108
.

The Author

Recommended
In the Spotlight
RSS
While offsets are imperfect, they may be necessary to reach ambitious short-term environmental goals.
More on Energy
Danielle F. Jung and Dara Kay Cohen argue that lynching emerges when neither the state nor its challengers have a monopoly over legitimate authority.
More on International Security
Western models partly inspired the creation of Special Operation Command and Military Police and the development of private military companies.
More from Russia Matters
Most Viewed

Tags