Dealers and Brokers in Civil Wars: Why States Delegate Rebel Support to Conduit Countries

Abstract External state support to non-state armed groups is commonly seen as a direct relationship between sponsor and rebel group. But powerful states often use third-party conduits of military aid. These intermediary are secondary, subordinate principals that part extended chains “dual delegation.” Because intermediaries likely have their own separate agendas, face double principal-agent problem when providing material groups. The difficulties problems associated with controlling the agent reflected in principal intermediary. States need identify alignment interests at an early stage, or risk strategic failure. There two ideal types intermediaries—dealers brokers. Case studies United States’ Mujahideen Afghanistan UNITA Angola (channeled through Pakistan Zaire, respectively) demonstrate affect provision external support. engaging counterterrorism look beyond sponsors terrorism explore role all involved process conflict delegation. That indicates holding accountable for violating nonintervention principle under international law should be reconsidered.