Asymmetry of the Modern Conflicts

Abstract

The system of the modern global security space is characterized by an increase in instability, and the proliferation of local and military conflicts, which are becoming increasingly intense and protracted, thus necessitating the study of current trends occurring in the security system at the global, regional, and national levels. The objective of the article is to define the essence of asymmetry in modern conflicts to substantiate current trends in the international security environment in the context of russian war against Ukraine. It has been determined that modern conflicts exhibit asymmetric characteristics, which are determined by the political-legal and economic environment. The absence of opportunities to exercise civil and political rights, protection of freedoms, and beliefs, and a fair judicial system become sources of social tension and conflicts in society. Authoritarian countries fail to ensure the effective functioning of state institutions, and respect for civil rights and freedoms, which exacerbates institutional and social instability. The absence of conflicts is a normal state for democracies. Differences in economic potential among countries determine the possibilities for increasing military potential. It is argued that a high level of military spending does not guarantee a high level of stability in a country, and social and economic inequality further exacerbates stratification and tension in society. Countries with high levels of prosperity demonstrate the highest levels of peacefulness, which do not necessarily coincide with high levels of military financing. It has been identified that the consequences of modern conflicts also have an asymmetric nature, which enhances the tendency towards the internationalization of internal conflicts: the countries most affected are those where the most intense conflicts take place, as well as their neighbouring countries. russia’s war against Ukraine has heightened the global level of danger in terms of tension and conflicts.