The Horn of Africa / Global Political Hot Spots (PDF)

The Horn of Africa is a deeply troubled region engulfed in three
interlocking crises. The first is a security crisis characterized
by a range of devastating inter-state and inter-communal conflicts,
including civil wars. The second is an economic crisis, evidenced
by widespread debilitating poverty, chronic food insecurity, and
frequent cycles of famines. The effects of the third -
environmental - crisis are all too visible in the droughts,
deforestation and desertification ravaging the region. What is
more, these three crises are mutually reinforcing locking the
region into a cycle of disaster. Conflicts contribute to poverty,
which in turn intensifies environmental degradation, leading to
scarcities which fuel further conflicts. style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;" />
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In this clear and authoritative guide, Kidane Mengisteab explores
the key drivers of instability in the Horn of Africa, suggesting
structural and institutional changes that - if implemented - could
help lift the region out of crisis. The Horn's complex crises
must be tackled in a comprehensive manner. But, he contends, this
can only be achieved if the causes of conflict are addressed
head-on. Without peace, the region cannot resolve its economic
problems, and nor can it develop the capabilities required to cope
with environmental change. style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;" />
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The Horn of Africa will be essential reading for students and
scholars in conflict and security studies, as well as anyone with
an interest in learning more about the dynamics of this troubled
region