Drugs trafficking and terrorism in Central Asia : an anatomy of relationships
Abstract
This thesis investigates to what extent there is a link between the
illicit drugs trade and regional terrorist/insurgent organisation s in
Central Asia. In particular , the research attempts to understand the
dynamics of actor participation within the drugs trade, including
whether any such involvement is motivated by either criminal or
political incentives. To inform such an assessment analysis of
engagement opportunities, financial requirements, network
connections and organisational structure have taken place.
The study initially drew from the wide body of literature that has
examined the degree to which exploitation of natural resources,
including drugs, has fuelled armed conflict. From this starting point
a qualitative field research agenda comp rising of over 180 semi -
structured interviews, documentary analysis and observation has
been undertaken.
It is the proposition of this thesis that the manner in which regional
terrorist/insurgent organisations participate within the drugs trade
appears to be more sporadic and localised than previously thought.
The assertion that participation will significantly expand a group’s
capabilities only appears accurate in very specific circumstances .
Furthermore, the evolving theory that terrorist/insurgent groups
have developed long term strategic relationships with organised
crime actually appears to be increasingly distant in the post 2001
Central Asian drug trafficking environment.
Type
Thesis, PhD Doctor of Philosophy
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