In 2005, we introduced the annual Failed States Index. Our data was collected from tens of thousands of articles from global and regional sources from May to December 2004. Utilizing our CAST software to do initial analysis of these electronic documents with review by experts, we compiled the scores below.

We encourage others to utilize the Failed States Index to develop ideas for promoting greater stability worldwide. We hope the Index will spur conversations, encourage debate, and most of all help guide strategies for sustainable security.

The Twelve Indicators

Click on an indicator to see some examples of measures that may be included in the analysis of that indicator. These are neither exclusive nor exhaustive. You can add more measures, as appropriate.             Social Indicators I-1.  Mounting Demographic Pressures I-2.  Massive Movement of Refugees or Internally Displaced Persons creating                  Complex Humanitarian Emergencies I-3.  Legacy of Vengeance-Seeking Group Grievance or Group Paranoia I-4.  Chronic and Sustained Human Flight             Economic Indicators I-5.  Uneven Economic Development along Group Lines I-6.  Sharp and/or Severe Economic Decline             Political Indicators I-7.  Criminalization and/or Delegitimization of the State I-8.  Progressive Deterioration of Public Services I-9.  Suspension or Arbitrary Application of the Rule of Law and Widespread                  Violation of Human Rights I-10. Security Apparatus Operates as a "State Within a State" I-11. Rise of Factionalized Elites I-12. Intervention of Other States or External Political Actors

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