In this week's material, it is highlighted that a robust foundation in state-building and peacebuilding is crucial for a state's stability and longevity.Effective state-building and peacebuilding are essential for preventing state fragility. These efforts collectively enable states to endure challenges and uphold security and legitimacy for their citizens, ultimately mitigating a slide into fragility or collapse.What happens when a state doesn't have said foundational elements? The question can be answered by understanding the following definitions, fragile, failing, and failed states.

It starts with a fragile state. So, what is a fragile state and how does it become one?A state can become fragile due to various factors, such as deeply rooted societal issues, political instability, criminal activities, and violence (Krasner and Risse 2014, 545).

-Fragile state:According to Kolk and Lenfant, Fragile states are marked by poverty and weak governance, leading to a high risk of conflict that impacts individuals and businesses (Kolk and Lenfant 2015, 422).

-Failing state:In terms of a failing state, it can be categorized as one that provides its citizens with basic services and law enforcement capabilities, but its government's overall stability is on the verge of collapse (Piazza 2008, 471).

-Failed state: A failed state is characterized by a breakdown of governance, security, and public services, where the state is both unable and unwilling to provide its citizens with essential services (Call 2011, 305).

Understanding the definitions of fragile, failing, and failed states is crucial for developing U.S. national security strategies. It helps identify states that are particularly vulnerable to international crimes and categorizes them into areas of concern where efforts can be focused to mitigate these issues. This approach allows for the identification of states where terrorism and crime pose significant threats to national security. SEND RESPONSE TO THIS PEERS WITH CITATION