What is an insurgency?

• A. An organized movement aimed at the overthrow of a government through subversion and armed conflict
• B. An official military campaign
• C. A peaceful protest movement
• D. A political party

Answer: (A)

An insurgency is an organized movement aimed at overthrowing a government through subversion and armed conflict, blending political aims with irregular warfare outside the formal military structure. These movements typically use clandestine networks, guerrilla tactics, sabotage, and propaganda to undermine state authority, win local support, and erode the government’s legitimacy. It differs from an official military campaign, which is conducted by the state’s armed forces; from a peaceful protest movement, which relies on nonviolent methods to express grievances; and from a political party, which participates in the formal political process within the existing system.