Date of Award
2006
Document Type
Thesis
Publisher
Edith Cowan University
Degree Name
Bachelor of Arts Honours
School
School of International, Cultural and Community Studies
Faculty
Faculty of Community Services, Education and Social Sciences
First Supervisor
Quentin Beresford
Abstract
This thesis examines the problem of failed and failing states set against the 'theory' that has accompanied this discourse. It uses a case study of Papua New Guinea (PNG) to examine both the theory and its related application in the Failed States Index (FSI) developed by the Fund for Peace and the Foreign Policy magazine. Critically examining the methodology used in the FSI, the thesis analysis a wide range of information about the social, economic and political problems facing PNG to highlight shortcomings in the current construction of the Index. These shortcomings are then used to highlight conceptual problems in the construction of categories in failed state 'theory': weak, failing failed. Whereas PNG has been designated a weak state, the thesis argues that this categorisation is ambiguous and, possibly, inaccurate.
Recommended Citation
Tulkiewicz, M. S. (2006). Papua New Guinea: weak, failing, failed? : An examination of failed state theory and the usefulness of the Failed States Index. Edith Cowan University. https://ro.ecu.edu.au/theses_hons/1283