Description
TitleGo green or stay on red: critical time in humanitarian action
Date Created2019
Other Date2019-05 (degree)
Extent1 online resource (iv, 233 pages)
DescriptionThis dissertation focuses on humanitarian action and security in Sub-Saharan Africa, particularly in the DRC and the Central Africa region. Using the humanitarian-security-development paradigm, I tackle the problem of the ineffectiveness of the traditional approach to humanitarian intervention in Africa, and provide a critical path to a systemic shift towards long-term stability and security by developing innovative institutional and operational mechanisms for peace recovery.
On the security front, I argue that peace recovery through humanitarian action requires that the anchors of traditional security in indigenous Africa, based on sociological factors such as ethnicity and cultural dynamics, be integrated into the modern security framework. In addition to the security factor, I contend that addressing the issue of identity crises that are engendered and fueled by displacement during violent conflicts is equally important for long-term recovery. I argue that this could best be accomplished by applying an overarching ideology, such as Pan-Africanism, to aid in the victims’ construction of a more inclusive identity.
Additionally, to further ensure effectiveness in humanitarian operations and delivery, I argue that the crisis of institutional deficits should be addressed through the empowerment and participation of local actors such as church leaders, organizations in civil society, traditional leaders, and other local authorities who are currently excluded or ignored in the design and implementation of humanitarian policies and strategies, despite their influential roles in local communities. I further emphasized that such an effort by itself would not be successful if sustainable solutions to the problem of post-conflict military integration are not provided. Hence, I suggest the use of transitional public security principles, focusing on rebuilding trust within the military ranks, professionalization of the defense forces, and the restoration of civilian-military relations as critical elements.
To the above systemic and structural efforts, I argue for the adoption of practical solutions that address the issue of refugees and IDPs who are living in the camps. These strategies should be people-centered, with the victims making any decision regarding their readiness to return or reintegrate into their old communities. This readiness must be followed by an assessment of factors such as the institutional viability and legitimacy of actors in the country or communities to which refugees or IDPs might return. I conclude that it is only when these factors are considered and implemented under one integrated humanitarian framework that security will be recovered and peace guaranteed, both in the DRC and in the broader region.
NotePh.D.
NoteIncludes bibliographical references
Genretheses, ETD doctoral
LanguageEnglish
CollectionGraduate School - Newark Electronic Theses and Dissertations
Organization NameRutgers, The State University of New Jersey
RightsThe author owns the copyright to this work.
Statistical Profile