Private military companies: a geopolitical tool or a tool of private interest

9 Abstract The industry of Private military companies has been one of the most progressive sectors within the frame of the global economy in the last years. The phenomenon is quite recent, when the roots of modern military companies range on the end of the 80's. The fall of the Bi-polar competing has opened a wide range of possibilities for military companies. The demise of over-numerated armies has created a skilled work force of former soldiers. On the other hand, conflicts and instability persisted in the world periphery. Early years of the market were connected with South African firm Executive Outcomes. However EO had became famous until its dissolution, massive concern of both scholars and politicians has come when Coalition forces entered Iraq in 2003. Wide range of activities has been offered to private sector: from logistic and maintenance, to guarding and personal protective services. There are 180 000 contractor in the country today. In the rough 20 000 to 30 00 of them should be described as "real soldiers" without uniform. Extension of private activities in Iraq and its consequences has led to the "publicity" of the problem. The problem has obtained wide attention from academics as well as decision makers. The goal of the submitted thesis lies in the exploration of PMC's ability to be an...Katedra sociální geografie a region. rozvojeDepartment of Social Geography and Regional Develop.Faculty of SciencePřírodovědecká fakult