What is a key characteristic of failed or failing states?

A key characteristic of failed or failing states is their loss of ability to meet population needs. This condition manifests when the government can no longer provide essential services such as security, healthcare, education, and infrastructure maintenance, leading to widespread discontent among the population. When a state fails in this regard, it creates an environment where lawlessness, corruption, and civil conflict can thrive, further destabilizing the region.

In contrast, a strong military presence, the ability to sustain economic growth, and a strong political system typically indicate a stable and functioning state. These characteristics are usually found in countries that have effective governance, economic policies that promote prosperity, and a capacity to enforce law and order, which are the opposite of the challenges faced by failing states.