A distinction is often made between a ‘weak state’ and a ‘weak power’. In line with this distinction, a state, because of its great size, considerable economic resources and large population, may be rated as a strong power capable of mustering considerable military might. But, due to internal factors such as a weak institutional structure, lack of a strong sense of nationhood or the existence of unassimilated ethnic minorities or poorly defined borders, it may at the same time be a weak state.