Somalia: Economy without State

by Peter D. Little

In the wake of the collapse of the Somali government in 1991, a "second" or "informal" economy based on trans-border trade and smuggling is thriving. While focusing primarily on pastoral and agricultural markets, Peter D. Little demonstrates that the Somalis are resilient and opportunistic and that they use their limited resources effectively. While it is true that many Somalis live in the shadow of brutal warlords and lack access to basic health care and education, Little focuses on those who have managed to carve out a productive means of making ends meet under difficult conditions and emphasizes the role of civic culture even when government no longer exists. Exploring questions such as, Does statelessness necessarily mean anarchy and disorder? Do money, international trade, and investment survive without a state? Do pastoralists care about development and social improvement? This book describes the complexity of the Somali situation in the light of international terrorism.

Genres: Somalia, Africa

224 pages, Paperback

First published September 1, 2003

Reviews

[Luba · Rating 3 out of 5]

A great introductory book to clan system and economy of Somalia. On the improvement side: the book is quite dry and academic. Most of economic information is outdated.

[Pat · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very informative. Somewhat dry but insightful. Helpful to achieving an opinion of situation in Somalia and surrounding counties. Brings together various factors contributing to the failed state status as well as the ways the country continues to function in important ways.