
Issue 48 – July 2024
TOPICS: Conflict Management, Internally Displaced Persons, Armed Conflict, Crime-Terror Nexus
Coordinator:
Christian Chereji and Ciprian Sandu
ARTICLES in Issue 48 – July 2024:
Kenya: Multiagency Strategies for Conflict Management in Laikipia County
Cosmas Ekwom KAMAIS & Emily Adhiambo OKUTO
Abstract:
The paper examined multiagency strategies for conflict management in Laikipia County, Kenya. It provided a solid foundation for understanding the context of the effect of multiagency approaches on conflict management. A descriptive survey research design was used incorporating both quantitative and qualitative primary data from a questionnaire, FGDs, and Key Informants interviews. The area of study was Laikipia County, Kenya with a focus on Laikipia West Sub County. Stratified random sampling was used to select respondents while the purposive sampling technique was used to select informants with in-depth knowledge and experience relevant to the research objectives. Qualitative data was coded, thematically categorized, and synthesized. Statistical modeling and trend analysis for quantitative data were performed with the aid of SPSS V.29. The result was presented using graphs, and charts while prioritizing validity and reliability through rigorous document selection and analysis methods. The research addressed the effectiveness of past strategies, emphasizing the importance of nuanced assessments that considered scope, context, implementation, outcomes, and dissemination. The findings emphasized the need for a nuanced and comprehensive assessment approach, covering scope and context, implementation and outcomes, challenges, and opportunities. The paper advocated for participatory approaches, long-term impact assessment, flexible frameworks, formal dialogue platforms, capacity building, strong leadership, resource mobilization, and continuous learning and adaptation to ensure effective conflict management. It concluded that while multiagency approaches can effectively manage conflicts, successful implementation requires meticulous planning and execution, tailored to the specific dynamics of the conflict landscape. The paper recommended a continued focus on participatory approaches, establishing formal dialogue platforms, and prioritizing strong leadership and inclusivity, benefiting policymakers, multiagency leaders, practitioners, and stakeholders involved in conflict management in Laikipia County.
Keywords:
Multiagency actions, participatory approach, multiagency strategies, conflict management.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.24193/csq.48.1
Nigeria: Security Concerns of Internally Displaced Persons Living in Non-camp Settings in Kwara State
Jean Marie Kasonga MBOMBO & Olufunke Mercy SHITTU
Abstract:
Internally displaced persons (IDPs) seek refuge in territories that are considered safer, including outside officially designated camps. This development raises security concerns for host communications, thus increasing the likelihood of conflict. This paper set out to unveil the presence of IDPs in non-camp settings (NCS) in Kwara State, examine the security implications associated with their covert existence within host communities, and evaluate the strategies put in place by the State Government to address them. The study adopted a mixed method approach, in which 200 copies of a questionnaire were distributed to local participants in selected towns, out of which 188 copies were retrieved. A snowball technique was used to identify unregistered IDPs while a purposive sampling technique was useful in the selection of key informants for interviews. The study found that the security implications of hosting IDPs were numerous: feelings of insecurity, a threat to physical and mental health, a threat to life, vulnerability to harassment; increasing demographic imbalance, and condescending attitude of the host population among others. The study concluded that a high level of impoverishment in NCS threatens human security for both the host population and the IDPs. The study recommended that the Kwara State Government should synergize with relevant stakeholders and the local communities, to identify and profile all victims of internal displacement for an effective response to security challenges.
Keywords:
Security, Internal Displacement, noncamp setting, host community, Kwara.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.24193/csq.48.2
Afghanistan: The Economic Impact of Armed Conflict
Chang MENG, Jamshid YOLCHI, & Noorulhaq GHAFOORI
Abstract:
This study examines the economic impact of armed conflict in Afghanistan. During the armed conflict between 1978 and 2021, the country received $88 billion in official development assistance (ODA) and over $136 billion in war-induced USAID funding. We found that the one-year Afghan armed conflict, with an average of 17,661 battle-related deaths, increases the GDP per capita by at least 1.9%. Comparatively, a one-year US-led war relative to a USSR-led war increases the GDP per capita by at least 5.7%; in contrast, a one-year civil war reduces it by 4.1%. In addition, our cost estimation suggests that between 2002 and 2021, at least $40.9 ± 5% billion (45.9%) of the Afghan state budget is spent on war-related and war-affected institutions. This is equal to 1,062% of Afghanistan’s total GDP in 2002 and 280% in 2021. Moreover, this study will be helpful in understanding the implications of the Sustainable Development Goals and achieving specific targets such as Goal 8 (economic growth) and Goal 16 (peace and inclusive societies) in Afghanistan.
Keywords:
Economic impact, GDP, armed conflict, USSR-led War, US-led War, civil war, Afghanistan.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.24193/csq.48.3
Mali: Conflict, Social Order and the Crime-Terror Nexus
Andrei MIROIU & Ana Raluca ALECU
Abstract:
This article examines the relationship between conflict, social order, and the crime-terror nexus, with a focus on non-state armed groups in Mali, particularly Jama’at Nasr al-Islam wal Muslimin (JNIM). Using anarchist political theory, the study challenges the view of these groups as purely chaotic, instead suggesting their primary aim is to establish social order. The crime-terror nexus is explored to understand its role in new governance structures created by these groups. The study underscores the importance of re-evaluating the frameworks used to interpret armed groups, emphasizing their role in creating social order and stability in conflict zones. The research offers insights into the complex dynamics of armed groups in Mali and encourages further investigation into their influence on regional stability.
Keywords:
Mali, armed groups, social order, terrorism, governance, conflict, crime-terror nexus.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.24193/csq.48.4
India: Understanding the Hills-Valley Divide and Meitei-Kuki Conflict in Manipur
N. PAUTUNTHANG
Abstract:
This paper explores the notion of the hills-valley divide in Manipur, focusing on the divide between Meitei people and hill tribes and its consequences on ethnic conflict. It examines the hills-valley divide through secondary data such as articles, news reports, and talks. The Meiteis, the largest community, enjoy power in all aspects of life. Due to poor representation in the Legislative Assembly, tribals have a lesser voice in decision-making. Moreover, since funds are allocated by population size, dwellers have a natural advantage over hill people. The existing hills valley divide and development inequality lead to misunderstanding between the tribals and the non-tribals in Manipur. The tribals of Manipur came up with different demands for developing their respective areas and safeguarding their identity. However, their demands were never fulfilled by the Meitei-led Manipur government. The state government tried to change the law to alienate tribal land in a very well-planned manner. This creates inter-ethnic tensions, and tribal political problems have remained unresolved. This paper suggests that the state must formulate policies for Manipur’s moral and emotional integration by proportionately diversifying developmental infrastructure.
Keywords:
Manipur, hills-valley divide, buffer zone, ethnic clash, violence.