Most countries in the world, no matter their system of government, are members of economic bodies such as the WTO, IMF, W Bank or of regional economic bodies. Democratic and autocratic states both appear committed to boosting and developing trade for their own benefit with an impact of stability. Most countries in the world, no matter their system of government, are members of political bodies such as the United Nations or attend global conferences in areas such as the environment. Democratic and autocratic states both appear ready and determined as well as to see benefit in engaging in international organisations including bodies like the United Nations because of the legitimacy it provides them with and the opportunity to resolve, jointly, global issues which brings stability. The United States has invaded both Iraq and Afghanistan since 2000 as part of the war on terror whilst authoritarian states such as Libya have been involved in recent conflict. Democratic and autocratic states both appear willing to engage in war and conflict and see it as a worthwhile process in resolving areas of concern which brings disorder. The United States has been condemned for actions at Guantanamo Bay, extraordinary rendition and for the actions of so called ‘Black Sites’ whilst authoritarian states such as North Korea have been condemned for torture and similar activities by numerous bodies. Democratic and autocratic states have both been accused of committing human rights abuses and violating international law and appear willing to use questionable activities despite global condemnation in pursuit of their own interests which brings instability. The United States is a nuclear weapons power and spends approximately $750 billion on military each year which is the largest state expenditure whilst North Korea spends approx. 16% of its budget whilst pursuing a nuclear weapons programme. Democratic and autocratic states both appear to value military power and strength and to seek to expand their military capability as a source of continued significant hard power which may bring instability.