Paramilitaries are groups of individuals who are armed and organized, but are not considered to be a formal part of a country's military or police forces. Synonyms for paramilitaries include militants, guerrillas, insurgents, rebels, and vigilantes. These groups often form in response to political instability, poverty, or a lack of faith in government institutions. They can be seen as a threat to national security and can cause violence and unrest in the areas where they operate. Governments and international organizations aim to prevent the use of paramilitaries and promote stability through strong institutions and respect for human rights.