Private military security companies in the Middle East and North Africa

Abstract

The current increase in the use of private military and security companies (PMSCs) that have spread significantly both globally and within the MENA region is often viewed through a black and white lens. PMSCs have mainly been looked at through their role in combat operations, while the wide and diverse range of their services such as logistics, intelligence, and security consultation is often ignored or does not get sufficient attention. The array of actors (PMSCs and players who interact with them) and services provided creates a complex picture, making it sometimes hard to grasp the effectiveness of these companies. This article attempts to provide a clearer vision of the effects that the PMSCs have on the overall stability in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). By outlining different actors and the main tasks carried out by the PMSCs the article explores whether their presence in the MENA has a negative or positive effect on the security and stability in the region.