Renowned Caribbean national security expert, Ivelaw Lloyd Griffith, delves into the intricate web of challenges faced by the Caribbean nations in his latest book, aptly titled “Challenged Sovereignty.” Available now for purchase, the book offers a comprehensive examination of the far-reaching impact of drugs, crime, terrorism, and cyber threats on the region.
Griffith’s extensive analysis uncovers the complexities of governance in today’s interdependent and interconnected world. Focusing on the Caribbean, the book sheds light on the profound consequences of transnational issues, often referred to as Problems Without Passports (PWPs). These issues, including the drug trade, crime, terrorism, and cyber threats, pose a significant threat to the traditional concept of nation states.
“Challenged Sovereignty” skillfully combines case studies with regional analysis to unravel the multifaceted impact of PWPs on the Caribbean. Griffith highlights the intricate interplay between local and global forces, showcasing how these challenges undermine the fundamental goals of governments – protecting their citizens against military threats, subversion, and the erosion of political, economic, and social values.
The book delves into specific instances of clashes between PWPs and state authorities, such as the conflicts involving drug gangs in Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago’s historical association with terrorism-related activities, the political resurgence of drug trafficker Desi Bouterse in Suriname, and the escalating cyber threats across the region.
Drawing from his extensive expertise, Griffith advocates for a holistic approach to address these multidimensional threats. He emphasizes the necessity of tackling both traditional and non-traditional security and sovereignty issues to effectively safeguard the Caribbean nations.
Griffith’s motivation for writing the book stems from his previous works, including “The Quest for Security in the Caribbean” (1993) and “Drugs and Security in the Caribbean: Sovereignty Under Siege” (1997). The impetus gained momentum following the favorable response to his 2011 lecture at FIU, centered on drugs and crime, which gained traction after online sharing. Twelve years later, the resultant work, “Challenged Sovereignty,” expanded its scope to encompass terrorism and cybercrime.
As a Fellow of the Caribbean Policy Consortium and Global Americans, along with being a Senior Associate of the Center for Strategic and International Studies, Griffith brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to “Challenged Sovereignty.” His past works, including “Strategy and Security in the Caribbean”, “Drugs and Security in the Caribbean”, “The Political Economy of Drugs in the Caribbean”, and “Caribbean Security in the Age of Terror” solidify his position as a leading authority in the field.
“Challenged Sovereignty” not only addresses pressing issues raised during Griffith’s lecture but also serves as a timely and insightful exploration of the contemporary challenges facing the Caribbean in an increasingly globalized world.
There are four book launches planned, March – USA, April – Trinidad and Tobago, and May – Jamaica and Belize.
“Challenged Sovereignty” can be purchased at UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS PRESS Urbana, Chicago, and Springfield at https://www.press.uillinois.edu/books/?id=p087776, and on Amazon at “Challenged Sovereignty” Ivelaw Griffith
