JOURNAL: The Inflating TAZ

NOTE: Here's some theoretical warfare stuff for those that are interested.

In open source warfare, an insurgency's strength grows through a proliferation of groups with a similar high level objective:  a weaker nation-state.  The question becomes:  how is this proliferation achieved?

This model is a likely candidate:

Simple process:

1. Create a TAZ (temporary autonomous zone).  Self-generate financing.  
2. Disrupt adjacent areas.  Optimally, by breaking economic/commercial systems.
3. Generate local failures in adjacent areas through repeated disruptions.  Reduce the legitimacy of the nation-state/government.
4. Local failures shift primary loyalties and the formation of new groups.  Seed these groups with offers of alliance and support.
5. New TAZ is created as new group forms.   

This model has been demonstrated in Iraq (less so in  Afghanistan).  It's likely going to be seen again, but more effectively, in Pakistan and Mexico. 

NOTE:  Situations that can be exploited by the nation-state include:  a) the core group becomes large enough to easily target (usually by acquiring the new territories as their own), b) social disruption, as opposed to economic disruption, creates inter-group competition/warfare (this was the opportunity the US used in Iraq).