Introduction

This chapter defines the notion “failed state” and poses a new research question. At the outset, I define this notion with the aim of building up a theoretical framework capable of interpreting the discourse that materializes collapse in a county. I argue that the literature looking specifically at the meaning of failed state is extensive; however, I have not encountered, up to the time of writing, a study that analyses discourse in a failed state. The previous reflections on the concept of a “failed” or “fragile” state prompt a novel discussion and definition of the term, namely one based on discourse analysis, and its contribution in shaping the plural character of its meaning. I also argue that this book will explore the role of discourse in indicating the degree of state collapse and failure; hence the principal argument is that discourse both plays a role in that collapse and is a presenting symptom of social disintegration. Through this project, I seek to bridge this apparent gap in applied linguistic research on state failure.