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Begin New Search Topic International Affairs Political Geography Africa Content Type Policy Brief Publishing Institution Africa Center for Strategic Studies

1. From Urban Fragility to Urban Stability

Author:
Stephen Commins
Publication Date:
06-2018
Content Type:
Policy Brief
Institution:
Africa Center for Strategic Studies
Abstract:
The growing share of Africa’s urban residents living in slums is creating a further source of fragility. In response, some cities are implementing integrated urban development strategies that link local government, police, the private sector, and youth to strengthen social cohesion and enhance stability.
Topic:
International Affairs, Urbanization, and Political stability
Political Geography:
Africa

2. The Lessons and Limits of DDR in Africa

Author:
Prosper Nzekani Zena
Publication Date:
01-2013
Content Type:
Policy Brief
Institution:
Africa Center for Strategic Studies
Abstract:
With organized initiatives for demobilization, disarmament, and reintegration (DDR) in 10 African states, there is widespread recognition of the importance of these programs to advancing stability on the continent. Even so, these initiatives are often under-prioritized and -conceptualized, contributing to the high rates of conflict relapse observed in Africa. DDR efforts across Africa over the past decade indicate that DDR cannot substitute for measures that address core conflict drivers and is often hobbled by expedient but fragile efforts to integrate nonstate militias with a national defense force.
Topic:
International Affairs
Political Geography:
Africa

3. Lessons Learned from Peace Operations in Africa

Author:
Paul D. Williams
Publication Date:
03-2010
Content Type:
Policy Brief
Institution:
Africa Center for Strategic Studies
Abstract:
There have been 40 peace operations deployed to 14 African states since 2000. To be successful, peace operations must be part of an effective political strategy and peace process, not a substitute for them. Policymakers need to move beyond a preoccupation with the number of personnel deployed for each mission and focus on what capabilities are needed to generate the desired political effects. Maintaining legitimacy is a crucial part of achieving success.
Topic:
Conflict Prevention, International Affairs, Military Strategy, Peacekeeping, and Military Affairs
Political Geography:
Africa

4. Navies versus Coast Guards: Defining the Roles of African Maritime Security Forces

Author:
Augustus Vogel
Publication Date:
12-2009
Content Type:
Policy Brief
Institution:
Africa Center for Strategic Studies
Abstract:
Maritime security challenges in Africa are growing rapidly and represent an increasingly central component of the threat matrix facing the continent. African states struggle to meet these threats because their maritime security structures are misaligned with the challenges posed. Redressing this misalignment will require valuing the coast guard capacity demanded by these threats and constructing the array of intragovernmental partnerships needed to be effective in combating these threats.
Topic:
International Cooperation, International Affairs, and Military Affairs
Political Geography:
Africa

5. U.S. Security Engagement in Africa

Author:
William M. Bellamy
Publication Date:
06-2009
Content Type:
Policy Brief
Institution:
Africa Center for Strategic Studies
Abstract:
Despite significant recent gains, Africa's security environment remains fragile with a wide array of ongoing and emerging threats placing great strains on already overburdened governments. United Nations peacekeeping operations in Africa have realized some success in recent years, especially when they have involved direct support from members of the Security Council. Much more cohesive interagency coordination under strong White House direction is required if the United States is to contribute to Africa's sustained stability given the region's persistent conditions of poverty, inequality, and weak governance.
Topic:
Conflict Prevention, Security, International Security, International Affairs, and Military Strategy
Political Geography:
Africa and United Nations