National power in the pararegion of the Horn of Africa: Analysing hierarchy,mobility,and articulation through the World Power Index

Abstract

This work analyses the Horn of Africa as a pararegion, using a trans-structural approach to evaluate the material, semimaterial, and immaterial state capacities that constitute national power through the World Power Index (WPI). Using the WPI series, three methodological principles—relational hierarchy, positional mobility, and systemic articulation—are then applied to examine the internal dynamics. The results reveal that power is unevenly distributed, trajectories vary asymmetrically, and functional linkages are fragmented. These dynamics explain why the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) operates primarily as a mechanism for crisis management rather than as a driver of pararegional transformation.

Keywords

Horn of Africa pararegion World Power Index relational hierarchy positional mobility systemic articulation

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