Yemen, a country that has become impoverished by a weak government, its frail institutions and a lack of national identity is currently facing a civil war and a catastrophic humanitarian crisis. In...Show moreYemen, a country that has become impoverished by a weak government, its frail institutions and a lack of national identity is currently facing a civil war and a catastrophic humanitarian crisis. In 2014, in the wake of escalating political unrest, a group named the 'Houthis' or 'Ansar Allah' ('Supporters of God'), seized the capital Sana'a. Amongst other actors, the Houthis continue to play a major role in the conflict. This thesis poses the question whether the Houthi identity has changed throughout the conflicts in Yemen in 1990 to 2014, and if so, in what way. In light of the concept of ontological security, explaining-outcome process-tracing suggests a transformation in three distinct steps: reform, denial and exit.Show less
This article analyses the paradoxical behaviour by China in the Diaoyu/Senkaku islands dispute by using the theory of ontological security, security of the Self. The analysis demonstrates that...Show moreThis article analyses the paradoxical behaviour by China in the Diaoyu/Senkaku islands dispute by using the theory of ontological security, security of the Self. The analysis demonstrates that China uses securitization, the severe politicization of the islands dispute, as a means of protecting its core interests, territorial integrity, sovereignty, and development. China has adopted a more assertive stance in the dispute since the 2010 boat collision and the 2012 ‘nationalization’ of the islands by Japan, heightening tensions between the two powers in the region. China does not seem to bargain on its core interests as to solve the islands dispute in the (near) future.Show less
