What recent global trend has been observed regarding wars?

The observation that there are fewer wars globally reflects a trend in the international system where large-scale interstate wars have become less common, particularly since the end of the Cold War. This decline can be attributed to various factors, such as the increased global interconnectedness, the rise of international norms against aggressive warfare, and diplomatic mechanisms that facilitate conflict resolution.

Additionally, the changing nature of warfare, where many conflicts now occur within states rather than between them, has also influenced the statistics surrounding wars. Scholars often debate the definitions and classifications of conflicts, leading to the conclusion that while there may be an increase in certain types of violence, particularly civil wars or localized conflicts, the broader trend indicates a reduction in traditional interstate warfare. This context is vital to understand contemporary international relations and the evolving nature of conflict.