What are the major causes of wars or regional conflicts in the modern world?

The major causes of wars or regional conflicts in the modern world are multifaceted and can be broadly categorized into biological and psychological factors, as well as social relations and institutions.2

Firstly, some theories suggest that certain innate biological and psychological drives contribute to the occurrence of wars. These might include aggressive tendencies or the human instinct for competition and dominance.2 On the other hand, contemporary theories also emphasize the role of social relations and institutions. Factors such as political, economic, and territorial disputes can lead to conflicts between nations or within a state.2

Moreover, the nature of conflict has evolved since the United Nations was founded 75 years ago. Modern conflicts tend to be less deadly and are often waged between domestic groups rather than being solely between states.1 This shift indicates that internal strife and civil wars have become more prevalent causes of conflict in the contemporary world.

Additionally, recent conflicts, such as the civil war in Ethiopia’s Tigray region, the Russian invasion of Ukraine, and other instances of violence, have contributed to a dramatic increase in battle deaths.3 Despite this, the number of state-based armed conflicts has remained high, with fifty-five active conflicts recorded in 2022.4

Understanding the evolution of armed conflict types and their drivers is crucial for predicting and potentially preventing future conflicts. Reports on this subject aim to study trends and identify key indicators that may signal an increase in conflict trends.56 These indicators can provide early warning signs and help in developing strategies to address and mitigate the causes of wars and regional conflicts.6