PRIVATE MILITARY COMPANIES AND THE EROSION OF STATE SOVEREIGNTY: THE COMMODIFICATION OF SECURITY IN THE 21ST CENTURY.

This paper explores the rise in the use of Private Military Companies (PMCs) in the 21st century for state security and how they may weaken state sovereignty. Traditionally, the sovereignty of states has been grounded in their power and monopoly to use force legitimately. While some scholars argue that PMCs offer military efficiency, flexibility, and tactical advantages, this paper examines how long-term contracting of military security can undermine state legitimacy, weaken sovereignty, increase human rights violations, and threaten international security governance. It also recommends that stronger, comprehensive legal frameworks and international regulations are necessary to ensure PMCs are held accountable and regulated. More importantly, states must have a stronger political will to improve their security services in specialisation, welfare, and transparency.