The Economics of Private Armies

The Wagner Group's recent attempted coup in Russia and actions across Africa and Ukraine have raised questions about the roles that private military contractors play on the international stage.

But what are the economics behind such groups and how can competition be introduced to the military sphere?

To discuss this, IEA Research Assistant Daniel Freeman spoke with Keith Hartley, Emeritus Professor of Economics at the University of York.

#wagner #economics #war

[pperrinuk]

A commercial company is in it for the money... there would always be a risk that your 'enemy' outbids you and you lose your offensive or defensive capability. A private company could not be in charge of active combat situations - could it? Training, leasing equipment maybe... but not in action.