Gangs in global perspective

Abstract

As processes and patterns of organized violence across different contexts continue to take new and complex turns, this paper takes stock of some of the most important trends to emerge in research on gangs in recent years. Shifting social, political and economic conditions and diverse systemic shocks continue to interweave with often dynamic and flexible organizational and operational gang structures, contributing to ever more complex landscapes of violence. In addition, the increasingly blurred boundaries between violent groups at local, national and even regional scales have complicated attempts to disentangle and distinguish different violent actors and institutions. The paper grapples with contemporary dynamics of violence, conflict and gangs, considering both change and continuity. It highlights the need to continue developing research and interventions that move beyond pre-existing, inappropriate or exaggerated understandings of gangs, by engaging with the increasing blurring between different violent groups and the complex relationships between gangs, the state and society, so capturing the fluidity of gang identities and motivations.