This book utilizes a systems thinking perspective to propose a holistic framework of analysis and practice for the regional security community (“RSC”) arrangement in Africa. In responding to the challenge of improving effectiveness of response to peace and security threats, African states tend to rely on ad hoc mechanisms. However, this approach has been mired with a myriad of structural limitations. The holistic framework reconfigures the traditional “RSC” into a simplified tool kit of “resources”, making this text book ideal for students and advanced researchers in international relations, and all those concerned with regional security and strategic studies.
“Conflicts in Africa, interstate wars, civil wars, and protracted social conflicts, have increasingly spilled over national borders to become regional conflicts. In response, the international community has offered regional solutions. But will these conflicts be regionally contained? Onditi and his co-authors have taken up the challenge of rethinking regional security communities from a holistic approach. Building upon the foundations of scholars such as Barry Buzan and Karl Deutsch, this volume (de)constructs the AU‘s emerging peace and security architecture, to promote African centered solutions to problems of conflict that transcend the legacy of post-colonial boundaries denoted by the ‘Curse of Berlin’.” (Douglas A. Yates, Professor of Political Science, American Graduate School in Paris, France)
“In a continent replete with a plethora of security challenges, the roles played by actors such as regional organizations in security community consolidation, enlargement and institutionalization are critical for Africa. This timely book is a masterpiece that broadens the epistemological debate on security communities and is a must for scholars, students and policy makers.” (Korwa Gombe Adar, Professor of International Studies, University of Botswana)