Regional security institutions and weak states: The case of post-conflict Somalia and the Inter-Governmental Authority on Development (IGAD)

Abstract

How do weak states in conflict-prone regions of the world manage crisis? This article applies a theory of international organizations as a framework to analyze how states in East Africa cooperated to address the problems associated with state collapse in Somalia. Based on a case study of the InterGovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), the study identifies unique factors for why weak states act through security organizations by focusing on the role of changing norms and structural factors. Finally, the article pinpoints factors that undermine the IGAD's ability to live up to its full potential, and offers potential policy remedies.

The impact of the Middle East and Gulf states' involvement on the Horn of Africa's peace and security: Applying regional security complex theory

“…According to Melvin (2019), the increasing role of external security actors in the Horn poses challenges to regional security institutions. The presence of foreign military companies undermined the competence of regional institutions such as IGAD and the AU in combating regional threats and challenges (Farole, 2018). Scholars including Solomon (2014), Asnake (2015), Byiers (2016), and Redie, (2019) have also revealed how the presence of external powers in the Horn affects IGAD's efforts to promote peace and security in the region.…”

Exploration into IGAD’s Contributions towards Peace and Stability in Mogadishu, Somalia

“…In fact, many foreign actors withdrew their participation in peacebuilding without fully succeeding. However, IGAD has remained and continue to engage in peacebuilding process to restore peace and stability in Somalia (Farole, 2018;Hassan, 2017;Menkhaus, 2018). This study examined IGAD's role in peace and stability in Mogadishu, an area which has been hit most by conflict in Somalia.…”