The dynamics of modern conflicts in the 21st century are changing. The nature of war as we know it today is significantly different from how we experienced warfare in the past. In history, most wars were between nation states on defined territories, using large armies to pursue clearly outlined political aims. As we enter the 21st century, conflict now occurs in an ‘ecosystem of conflict’ in which the military forces of sovereign states, insurgent or extremist groups, ideologically based networks, and political movements all interact with one another at the same time. Within this evolving ecosystem, the presence of non-state actors and right-wing populists has emerged as an important variable in the outcome of conflicts. Non-state actors have the potential to significantly impact the political outcome and military strategies of states, and they can also influence the diplomatic relationships of other states.

From South Asia to the Middle East, non-state actors are continuing to redefine how modern warfare occurs. Their increasing influence illustrates that conflict is no longer a state-centred event. Instead, the conduct of conflict today is a complicated arena of interactions that cross-cut each other through armed groups and ideologically based movements. In modern-day conflicts, violent non-state actors are becoming significant political and military players, illustrating the transcendence of their marginal insurgencies. Many hybrid warfare techniques have been implemented by these groups, including guerrilla warfare tactics, cyber capabilities, propaganda efforts, and advanced weapon systems previously reserved for legitimate........

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