Doctoral Dissertation Research: How does militarized state control affect targeted communities?

Northeastern University, Boston MA

Investigators

Abstract

Security-based interventions have become increasingly common in impoverished urban spaces, although little is known about how these programs affect the relationship between the state and targeted communities. This project helps to address that gap by examining the impact of militarized state responses on opportunities for political engagement and governance. The study employs a mixed-methods approach, which includes a multi-sited ethnography and secondary data analysis of news articles and public speeches. Ethnographic research takes place in geographic, virtual, and political spaces. This project contributes to an increasingly important conversation about the benefits and limitations of employing state security forces to combat violent gangs and promote social development in poor urban areas.