Privatising security and war.

The article examines the privatization of state security functions within countries where conflicts are displacing large numbers of people. It is attested that, whereas these functions were once performed by national armies or police forces, they are increasingly being outsourced to private military and security companies (PMSC). The author urges that the activities of these private sector organisations create an arena of armed enforcement wherein there is neither accountability nor regulation. Within humanitarian operations, the use of these companies has allegedly blurred the distinction between non-profit organisations and for-profit organisations.