Description
Book SynopsisWorking from a thematic, empirical-analytical approach, this work surveys the root causes of civil wars and military coups d''état in West Africa, analyzes the implications for the region as a whole, and identifies possible solutions to these armed conflicts.
Trade ReviewThis book addresses the root causes of [political instability]…and puts forward many valuable recommendations for preventing and resolving them. While some authors, for reasons sometimes unclear, have tended to…ignore or even distort ECOWAS's contribution…[Souaré] appreciates our efforts and does not shy away from constructively scrutinizing them... -- Mohamed Ibn Chambas, Executive Secretary, Economic Community of West African States
[Souaré] writes not as a disinterested observer, but as a researcher with deep compassion for the subject matter, the people of West Africa, and the continent as a whole. I recommend this book to…historians, political scientists, students of international relations, as well as those involved in conflict resolution and African studies. -- Joe L. Washington, Visiting Professor, University of Pisa, Italy
Issaka Souaré…emphasizes that better governance, more genuine democracy, and better living conditions for the people of an area now suffering from widespread poverty are needed to make West Africa more peaceful and stable. -- Jonathan Derrick * Africa Week *
This book is an exceptionally lucid, perceptive, and informative interpretation of West Africa's turbulent postcolonial experience-encompassing causes, consequences, and the search for African solutions. The African body politic is ailing. Issaka Souaré has provided us with an insightful diagnosis and some guidance for the healing process. -- Ali A. Mazrui, director, Institute of Global Cultural Studies, SUNY Binghamton
Table of ContentsChapter 1 Acronyms & Abbreviations Chapter 2 Foreword Chapter 3 Acknowledgements Chapter 4 Map of ECOWAS states in Africa Chapter 5 Introduction Chapter 6 1. A General Overview of West Africa: Concepts and Clarifications Chapter 7 2. Understanding the Roots of Civil Wars in West Africa Chapter 8 3. Explaining Coup d'État in West Africa Chapter 9 4. Cost and Consequences of Armed Conflicts in West Africa Chapter 10 5. Suggesting Possible Solutions to Civil War and Coups d'État in West Africa Chapter 11 6. Case Studies Chapter 12 Bibliography Chapter 13 Index
