Introduction
With the spread of gendarmerie forces, there has been growing interest in studying them within the theoretical and conceptual framework focused on the state. This interest includes examining how the state enforces new forms of discipline within society in response to economic and social unrest, as well as assessing the impact of internal security structures on the continuity or downfall of government authority.
The paramilitary forces known as “Gendarmerie” emerged as a new form of societal control after the outbreak of the French Revolution. It served as a tool to expand the state’s bureaucratic control and strengthen its hegemony, particularly in rural and remote areas, and to address disturbances without the need to deploy the military locally, thereby reducing the risk of military coups. Additionally, there were economic benefits related to the limited financial resources required to recruit an effective paramilitary force compared to professional military forces.1 The gendarmerie has emerged as an intermediary model bridging the gap between professional armed forces equipped with heavy weaponry and the police, serving as a civilian security apparatus. It was established as a nimble, well-armed security force possessing military capabilities without being directly affiliated with the armed forces. However, its members received military training, lived in barracks, and were subjected to military jurisdiction.2
