A region caught between stronger colliding external cultural-political forces, under persistent stress, and often fragmented by aggressive rivals is known as a shatterbelt. These zones are characterized by instability, conflict, and shifting alliances, arising from the pressures exerted by competing powers.
Such areas often experience prolonged internal divisions and external intervention. The Balkans during the Cold War and Southeast Asia during the Vietnam War serve as prominent historical examples, where geopolitical competition between major powers significantly impacted the region’s stability and development. Understanding these zones is crucial for analyzing international relations and predicting potential conflict areas.
