PMCS as an instrument of influence in the international political arena

Strengthening the role of private military companies (PMCs) at the current stage of development of international relations is a major challenge for the international community. The possibility of using commercial armies by political actors for their own purposes raises the question of the quality and quantity of influence that these organizations have on delicate international relations. The progressive development of PMCs actualizes their relevance in military conflicts around the world, forcing large and small countries to put on the agenda the issue of using them as an instrument of influence - editing international relations. The paper analyzes the position of private military companies in the international legal framework. Their features for hiring entities and types according to the principle of services provided are defined. Examples of the influence of private military companies on international relations through direct and indirect intervention in military conflicts are examined.