Roots of Radicalism Lie in Economic Inequality

By J.J. Messner

J.J. Messner became the Executive Director of The Fund for Peace in October 2014 after having been the Director of FFP's Sustainable Development & Security program for nearly four years. He has also co-directed FFP's Fragile States Index and coordinated the country data and trends analysis program as well as FFP's media and communications outreach. Prior to joining The Fund for Peace, from 2006 to 2010, J.J. was Director of the International Stability Operations Association (formerly the International Peace Operations Association), a non-profit organization focused on private sector support for operations in conflict and post-conflict environments. He was also the founder and Editor-in-Chief for four years of the Journal of International Peace Operations. J.J. also has experience in the fields of corporate antitrust law and educational non-profits. Originally from Adelaide, Australia, J.J. received his Bachelors degree in Politics and International Studies from the University of Adelaide, Australia and a Masters of Science (Peace Operations) from George Mason University in Arlington, Virginia. His academic work has also included research abroad in Costa Rica, India, Mexico and Timor-Leste as well as a study abroad at the College of William & Mary in Williamsburg, Virginia.

In June, 16 retired generals and admirals testified to the Senate Armed Services Committee that international economic development assistance “is not charity – it is an essential, modern tool of U.S. national security.” This assertion is backed up by a number of studies, which closely link the economic development of a country with the risk of violent conflict. However, President Trump’s proposed budget looks to slash almost $26 billion from diplomacy and foreign aid programs next year. The Cipher Brief’s Fritz Lodge spoke with J.J. Messner, Executive Director of the Fund for Peace, on the link between economic development and violence, and how U.S. economic aid can enhance national security.

The Cipher Brief: When you think about international conflicts, what are the biggest drivers in your mind? Specifically, what role does poverty and economic insecurity play in fueling such conflicts?

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