The Cause of Civil War

Civil wars occur due to a combination of factors: grievances, greed, and state capacity. Grievances arise when citizens perceive unfair treatment and unmet needs, but they alone do not always lead to conflict. Greed motivates rebel groups seeking control over resources, especially when external support is present. However, state capacity, representing a strong and powerful state, is the most significant factor, as it deters rebels and reduces the likelihood of civil war.