The Economist reports on the overpopulation of young, unemployed men in both Gaza and Kenya. In both regions, economic development has lagged behind gains in health and education, creating a generation of poor and disgruntled young people. These generations can be a major source of insecurity and they are prime recruits for insurgencies and criminal organizations.
This phenomena reminds me of research finding the best predictor of lynchings in the American South was the price of cotton. That is, the gap between economic expectations and reality created a behavioral proclivity towards violence. I will see if I am can dig up the specific article and let you know.
Hat Tip: New Security Beat.
Christopher R. Albon is a political science Ph.D. specializing in armed conflict, public health, human security, and health diplomacy.
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