Failed States

Somalia, Zimbabwe and Sudan topped the list of failed states this year — rankings based on human rights, governance, economic activity and other indicators. Also among the top 10 are Iraq, Afghanistan, Pakistan and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Poverty is endemic in many failed or failing states; in others, the government has lost legitimacy and control. As economic pressures increase with the global financial crisis, and environmental pressures contribute to water and food shortages, even more countries are at risk of failure. But these dire conditions have implications far beyond individual borders, as failed states — with their high rates of poverty and violence — may serve as breeding grounds for terrorists with global ambitions. Worldfocus.org’s weekly radio show will explore what it means for a state to fail, from the impact on daily life to widespread geopolitical ripple effects. Worldfocus anchor Martin Savidge will host a panel of guests. Tune in on Tuesday, July 21 at 6:30 p.m. EDT.