Functional Models of the Sponsor-Agent Relationship in Proxy Warfare

Abstract Proxy wars are a form of confrontation whose origins lost in the mists history. In 20th century and at beginning 21st century, this type war experienced sharp development due to changes that took place on international scene. Due fact great powers avoided direct during Cold War, for fear would degenerate into new conventional or even nuclear world war, they chose use proxy warfare as pressure relief valve, way put opponent difficulty, gain influence economic, political other benefits. can take both between states groups within state, terrorist group, paramilitary organisation, etc. common element is given by one parties benefit from external support, especially armaments, ammunitions, intelligence, expertise, advice sponsor which it becomes an agent. exchange sponsor's agent offers him series advantages, influence, The obtains strategic advantages without involvement, exposing himself settling national image costs, while actively involved combat operations, he who must ensure achievement objectives satisfy his own expectations those sponsor.