The concept of overseas presence is usually related to geopolitics. The political purpose of a national presence somewhere may seem self-evident (a deterrence, a way of expressing an interest, signalling commitment, ensuring inclusion in political processes, etc.). However, so far I have failed to find publications that discuss the concept of (also civilian) presence in greater depth -- beyond the meaning of effective control by a sovereign over a territory, self-determination, etc.
A great example would be Kosovo and with the U.N. and NATO presence. They're presence since 1999 defines the geopolitical and economical interest within the region. Some refer to the NATO actions and presence as a proactive and ethical measure taken after the mistakes in Bosnia.
I will attach an article later on tonight which might be of your help.
Are you interested in various expressions of extra-territoriality including civilian/military presencing - or is the interest in how and where the civilian presence in overseas countries makes itself manifest materially, spatially, culturally, ideologically? Are you interested in say particular examples such as the US Peace Corps?
Klaus, thank you for responding. I am looking into government-sponsored research activities that may (also) serve as a means of establishing a national presence in the polar regions. Examples: Research stations in Antarctica and Svalbard, Norway (notably in Ny-Ålesund and Barentsburg) and expeditions with research vessels to the Arctic and the Southern Oceans.
However, I do welcome references on other types of government-sponsored civilian activities that may serve similar purposes, and the US Peace Corps could be highly relevant. Also, I would like to find more general reflections of the effectiveness of this kind of presence, and not only related to single cases such as Kosovo or Israel/Palestine.
You can follow the work of PRTs in Afghanistan. I got this lead while supervising one of my students.
TDisengagement from Gaza and Post Occupation Duties" Tthere is my own article on the status of the Gaza Strip following Israel's disengagement. See "
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