“Vulture” Feeds on Zambia

“Vulture” Feeds on Zambia Author: Ashley Seager Originally Published at Peace and Conflict Monitor on: 02/28/2007 Category: In the News A so-called “vulture” fund has been given permission by a British court to enforce a claim for tens of millions of dollars theoretically owed by Zambia. The decision was immediately slammed by campaign groups who […]

Ethical Issues in Peacekeeping Operations in Africa

In this paper, Oluwaseun Bamidele initiates a dialogue on the fundamental issue of ethics in peacekeeping operations in Africa, particularly as it influences the adoption of a professional code of conduct. Theoretical concerns are treated in depth, various criticisms and arguments are raised, and each stage in the process of planning, implementing, and evaluating operations is considered.

El Salvador’s uncertain path to peace

Tags: El Salvador, peace process, gangs, rehabilitation, reintegration, ceasefire, sanctuary cities, Catholic Church, decolonizing peace, homicide, conflict transformation.

China’s ADIZ: A New Phase of the Pacific Arms Race

This paper offers an in-depth analysis of the history, status, and implications of the recent air defense identification zone (ADIZ) disputes in Northeast Asia involving China, South Korea, Japan, and the United States. The interests and actions of all parties are considered in light of the larger political and economic trends in the region, as well as the legal basis for claiming an ADIZ. Strategies to re-frame and deescalate the conflict and avoid military confrontation are suggested.

Clockwork Limón

A Reflection on Violence, Gangs and State Repression in Central America

Colombia: the good news

The internal pacification process in much-troubled Colombia has taken an important step forward. The recently concluded agreement between the Government of Colombia and the so-called United Self Defense Forces (AUC – often described as Colombia’s paramilitaries) for the gradual demobilization of the latter has come as a relief to many. It is not relevant to argue here whether or not “the paramilitaries pose the greatest threat to Colombian democracy …” (Foreign Affairs, Volume 8, No. 5) more so than the guerrillas (especially the FARC, who have conditioned advances in peace negotiations, amongst others on the government’s dealings with the AUC). The fact is that the government has successfully concluded an agreement – on paper. Peace-building is as difficult as peace-making, if not more so. Colombia is aware of it. It needs assistance.