Private Military Companies and the

Abstract

This research report begins with a brief review of mercenary history before the twentieth century, followed by chapters on mercenaries and PMCs in post-independence Africa and the use of PMCs by strong states (particularly the United States in Iraq). The fourth section analyses relevant international, regional and national laws, focussing on South African legislation. The final chapter considers pressing questions such as the use of PMCs by the United Nations and the case for banning all PMCs, explores the South African connection, and makes the case for a less hostile, more pragmatic South African approach to PMCs.