Report exposes U.N. camp abuses, but research shows justice is elusive Audrey L. Comstock - September 28, 2022 Analysis of U.N. peacekeeping missions highlights the obstacles to justice facing sexual abuse victims
Is it time to rethink how we study politics? Lahra Smith and Ankushi Mitra - September 11, 2022 ‘Decolonizing Politics’ and ‘Reconsidering Reparations’ are books that will inspire a wide range of readers.
What do Africans think about the proposed East African Federation? Mercy Kaburu and Carolyn Logan - September 9, 2022 An Afrobarometer survey suggests citizens aren’t aware of the plans for regional integration
No, Batman didn’t save the Congo, and other book reviews Laura Seay - August 4, 2022 Three new books set the record straight on the Democratic Republic of Congo.
50 years ago, Uganda ordered its entire Asian population to leave Meghan Garrity - August 4, 2022 A new data set explores mass expulsions around the world
‘Islamic State in Africa’ explores nine militant Islamist groups Dan Eizenga - July 14, 2022 This book takes a comprehensive look at the rise of Islamic State affiliates operating on the continent
Supply chains endanger American security. Here’s what Biden is doing. Todd N. Tucker - May 17, 2022 China controls many goods and materials that are critical for the U.S.
The U.K. wants to send refugees to Rwanda. That’s become a trend. Beatty Riedl, Eleanor Paynter, and Christa Kuntzelman - April 20, 2022 Similar plans in other countries suggest the U.K. program will endanger migrants, not protect them.
Long-serving African presidents say the people want them to stay on. Is that true? Boniface Dulani - November 4, 2021 The third in Afrobarometer’s special democracy summit series on Africa.
WHO workers are accused of sexual exploitation and abuse. That hurts everything the U.N. does. Jasmine Westendorf - October 5, 2021 As one official told me: ‘The U.N. is not a superpower. It has only its moral authority, and if you undermine that, you’re finished.’
Can you be a citizen of more than one country? Here’s what to learn from Liberia. Fulya Felicity Turkmen - August 26, 2021 A new book explores national and transnational citizenship in the 21st century
This book explains when peacekeeping works — and when it doesn’t Naazneen H. Barma - August 19, 2021 To give peace a chance, start with the grass roots, not the treetops.
Michela Wrong’s new book explores the 2013 murder of an exiled Rwandan official Laura Seay - August 12, 2021 Extensive interviews reveal more about the country’s campaign against dissidents
The E.U. is furious that Belarus allowed more than 4,000 migrants to cross into Europe Gerasimos Tsourapas - August 12, 2021 As countries in the global north outsource refugee management to the global south, expect more poor countries to ‘weaponize’ migration.
3 books offer deep dive into Kenyan politics Laura Seay and Kim Yi Dionne - July 29, 2021 This week’s African Politics Summer Reading Spectacular examines bureaucratic wrangling, the links between land and violence, and refugee life
Congo officials claim that a rebel group is tied to the Islamic State. That could backfire. Lindsay Scorgie and Mallory Dunlop - July 7, 2021 A local armed group claimed responsibility for recent attacks.
5 things to know about the instability in eastern Congo Robert U. Nagel and Kate Fin - June 10, 2021 Young Congolese want the government to step up against the increasing militant violence.
The Islamic State has ‘provinces’ in Africa. That doesn’t mean what you might think. Jason Warner - June 6, 2021 Africa’s militant groups retain considerable autonomy, research shows
Donors are cutting food aid for refugees in Rwanda. That’s devastating for people unable to work. Erika Frydenlund - May 24, 2021 Half these refugees have been in this camp for more than 20 years, unable to move forward with their lives.
China’s Belt and Road Initiative invests in African infrastructure — and African military and police forces Natalie Herbert - April 29, 2021 China is looking to protect its economic investments and build its reputation as a world power
Negotiating peace the same old way doesn’t work. Here’s what does. Séverine Autesserre - March 21, 2021 Over 20 years of research, these three things emerged as key to building a lasting peace
Africa has started vaccinating against the coronavirus. But do citizens trust their governments on vaccine safety? Aminatou Seydou - March 11, 2021 New Afrobarometer surveys help explain vaccine reluctance in five West African countries
The International Criminal Court just elected a new chief prosecutor. Here’s what you need to know. Nastaran Far, Hailey Robertson, and Kelebogile Zvobgo - February 16, 2021 The ICC’s future will rest on the new prosecutor’s success in opening, trying and closing cases — and being fair
Why Ethiopia’s conflict could spill beyond its borders David Kampf - November 30, 2020 Civil wars rarely remain purely domestic affairs
Guinea’s president claims he won reelection. Thousands of Guineans disagree. Lisa Mueller - October 30, 2020 Electoral protests in Africa rarely end up ousting an incumbent who defies term limits
A closer look at Congo’s Islamist rebels Judith Verweijen and Daniel Fahey - September 28, 2020 Claims about links to the Islamic State may hamper civilian protection
‘Love Falls on Us’ explores the intersection of African LGBT rights and American activism Kim Yi Dionne - September 18, 2020 Fascinating insights and personal stories make this a compelling read
African countries can fight coronavirus better when citizens encourage one another Melina R. Platas, Leah R. Rosenzweig, and Clara Bicalho - September 8, 2020 A recent survey offers public health insights from Nigeria, Uganda and Kenya
‘States of Justice’ asks tough questions about the International Criminal Court Kate Cronin-Furman - September 7, 2020 Oumar Ba’s new book illuminates the relationship between African governments and the ICC
What is China up to in Africa? Read this book. Laura Seay - August 27, 2020 Lina Benabdallah walks us through the dynamics of Beijing-style network building.
Nwando Achebe’s new book is a fascinating look at Africa’s queens, past and present Laura Seay - August 13, 2020 From spiritual leaders to parliamentarians and presidents, women are reclaiming leadership roles.
‘Tanzania’s Informal Economy’ offers a rare glimpse at the dynamics of Africa’s street markets Laura Seay - July 30, 2020 This book challenges much of what scholars assume about kinship, social networks, trust and solidarity.
‘Negotiating Public Services in the Congo’ is a smart, compelling read Laura Seay - June 26, 2020 When governments can’t provide services, citizens figure out how to keep essential systems running
How religion shapes Africans’ political behavior Laura Seay - June 4, 2020 “From Pews to Politics” offers unique insights
Trump wants to review the WHO’s actions. These are its key roles and limitations. Jeremy Youde - April 16, 2020 The logo and building of the World Health Organization headquarters
The U.N. has appealed for a global coronavirus cease-fire Govinda Clayton - April 12, 2020 But is it possible to quarantine conflict?
The World Bank’s 2017 pandemic response fund isn’t working Mara Pillinger - March 31, 2020 Private sector solutions don’t always fit public sector problems
The coronavirus is about to hit Africa. Here are the big challenges. Amy Patterson - February 18, 2020 Many Africans don’t trust the health system. That complicates the response.
China’s rigid governance system means local health problems can easily go national John K. Yasuda - February 3, 2020 So many layers of bureaucracy can’t move as quickly as a virus.
Why China’s politics makes it easier — and harder — to control disease outbreaks Joan Kaufman - January 28, 2020 It’s not just about wild animal markets.
Is China ready for this major global health challenge? Elanah Uretsky - January 27, 2020 Beijing invested heavily in public health around the world — but left troubling gaps at home
The WHO held off on declaring the Wuhan coronavirus a global health emergency. Here’s why. Mara Pillinger - January 26, 2020 These decisions are an uneasy balancing act between science and politics
China’s coronavirus outbreak has prompted some travel restrictions. That could backfire. Catherine Z. Worsnop - January 24, 2020 Countries don’t always follow WHO guidelines, and that’s a problem
How Joseph Kony’s notorious Lord’s Resistance Army uses photographs as weapons Kristof Titeca - December 8, 2019 For decades, the Ugandan warlord has evaded capture. These rarely seen pictures have helped.
Russia wants more influence in Africa. It’s using disinformation to get there. Shelby Grossman - December 2, 2019 Facebook says the oligarch behind the Internet Research Agency is involved.
What’s behind South Africa’s xenophobic violence in 2019? Carolyn Holmes - September 9, 2019 Violence against immigrants has sparked a diplomatic crisis
When poor countries build roads and schools, they are also building citizens Kim Yi Dionne - September 4, 2019 Here’s the final installment in this year’s TMC African Politics Summer Reading Spectacular
Here are the three new books you need to understand Nigeria Alexander Thurston - August 24, 2019 It’s the 11th installment of this year’s African Politics Summer Reading Spectacular! One’s an introduction, one explores Boko Haram and the third looks at the future of Nigeria’s democracy.
‘Strong NGOs and Weak States’ takes an intriguing look at the path of justice in Congo and South Africa Laura Seay - August 15, 2019 NGOs may wield more power than you think.
The Democratic candidates promise action on climate change. Here’s what stands in the way. Ashley Nunes - August 7, 2019 It’s not easy being green.
New Afrobarometer data shows Africans want elections — especially if they bring change at the top Sadhiska Bhoojedhur and Michael Bratton - July 9, 2019 That’s what Sudan’s protesters are risking their lives for. They’re not alone in their demands.
Here’s how Madagascar’s leaders could end their country’s long history of civil conflict Velomahanina Tahinjanahary Razakamaharavo - July 3, 2019 My research found which kinds of peace negotiations work — and which lead to more upheaval.
Here’s why Ebola has been so hard to contain in Eastern Congo Laura Seay and Kim Yi Dionne - June 24, 2019 Levels of citizens’ mistrust shape how they respond to the epidemic.
How Huawei could survive Trump Jordan Link - June 9, 2019 In Africa, basic connectivity needs and lower prices may outweigh security concerns.
In Liberia, the U.N. mission helped restore confidence in the rule of law Robert A. Blair - April 30, 2019 When civil war ended in 2003, few Liberians trusted the government to protect them.
The Trump administration opposes the International Criminal Court. Do Americans agree? Kelebogile Zvobgo - April 26, 2019 In short, it’s complicated.
Demand for Congo’s cobalt is on the rise. So is the scrutiny of mining practices. Sarah Katz-Lavigne - February 21, 2019 Congo’s contested elections in December resulted in the country’s first
Why is Nigeria cracking down on peaceful religious protests? Jason Klocek - February 4, 2019 [caption id="attachment_83417" align="aligncenter" width="960"] Members of the Islamic Movement in
Why are so many African leaders shutting off the Internet in 2019? Chipo Dendere - January 30, 2019 [caption id="attachment_83225" align="aligncenter" width="960"] Protesters gather near a burning tire
The International Criminal Court just acquitted the former Ivory Coast president. What happens now? Oumar Ba - January 22, 2019 [caption id="attachment_82866" align="aligncenter" width="960"] Former Ivory Coast president Laurent Gbagbo
The African Union called on Congo to suspend its election’s results. That’s unprecedented. Anna Mwaba - January 21, 2019 After a contentious race, on Jan. 10, 2019, Democratic Republic
Congo’s elections had a startling result. This is what’s going on. Sara Hellmüller - January 17, 2019 [caption id="attachment_82718" align="aligncenter" width="960"] Congolese police officers hold back members
Here’s what can undermine peacekeeping missions Allard Duursma - December 18, 2018 [caption id="attachment_53427" align="aligncenter" width="960"] U.N. peacekeeping forces patrol during presidential
International peacebuilding really can build peace — but perhaps not how you expect Susanna Campbell - December 11, 2018 [caption id="attachment_73379" align="aligncenter" width="960"] Soldiers and police at the scene
The 2018 Nobel Peace Prize is about helping the survivors of sexual violence Gudrun Østby and Christine Amisi - December 10, 2018 [caption id="attachment_81342" align="aligncenter" width="960"] Denis Mukwege, center, celebrates with his
GM thinks layoffs will boost its bottom line. The reality is more complicated. Ashley Nunes - December 2, 2018 This week, General Motors announced plans to halt production at
Do international observers go easy on African elections? Susan Dodsworth - November 20, 2018 [caption id="attachment_78810" align="aligncenter" width="960"] An electoral official counts ballots at
The U.S. has pulled back its Ebola response in Congo. Here’s the story. Jeremy Youde - November 8, 2018 [caption id="attachment_79992" align="aligncenter" width="960"] A medical worker puts on protective
A Yazidi activist was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. But what happens next for Yazidis? Tutku Ayhan - October 30, 2018 Yazidi survivor, activist and U.N. goodwill ambassador for the dignity
There’s another way to build peace. And it doesn’t come from the top down. Séverine Autesserre - October 23, 2018 [caption id="attachment_79254" align="aligncenter" width="960"] Women line up outside a polling
Why this strain of Ebola will be far more difficult to stop Lindsay Scorgie-Porter - October 19, 2018 [caption id="attachment_79103" align="aligncenter" width="960"] A medical worker prepares to treat
African countries have started to push back against Chinese development aid. Here’s why. Richard Aidoo - October 16, 2018 [caption id="attachment_78950" align="aligncenter" width="960"] Senegal President Macky Sall, left, and
After several high-profile murders in Iraq, here’s what headlines missed about their cause. Zahra Ali - October 15, 2018 [caption id="attachment_78816" align="aligncenter" width="960"] In this image from Oct. 1,
Why the Nobel Peace Prize went to 2 people fighting sexual violence in war Ragnhild Nordås and Elisabeth Wood - October 8, 2018 As Islamic State forces swept through northern Iraq in 2014,
Cameroon has an election Sunday — and everyone already knows the winner Yonatan Morse - October 6, 2018 [caption id="attachment_78633" align="aligncenter" width="960"] A Cameroonian couple on a scooter
Trump threatened to suspend the ‘conflict minerals’ provision of Dodd-Frank. That might actually be good for Congo. der Windt, Nik Stoop, and Marijke Verpoorten - September 27, 2018 [caption id="attachment_78296" align="aligncenter" width="960"] Men carry bags of tin ore,
Ebola is back — and a threat to people in Congo. Are African public health systems ready? Emmanuel Balogun and Amy Patterson - September 27, 2018 [caption id="attachment_78280" align="aligncenter" width="960"] A health worker in protective gear
Xi Jinping pledged $60 billion for Africa. Where will the money go? Winslow Robertson and Lina Benabdallah - September 17, 2018 [caption id="attachment_77825" align="aligncenter" width="960"] Chinese President Xi Jinping stands with
This new history of Uganda is a must-read Laura Seay - August 17, 2018 [caption id="attachment_76401" align="aligncenter" width="180"] Cambridge University Press[/caption] Every January, I
Can Angola’s new president get rid of corruption and revive his party’s reputation? Austin Doctor - August 3, 2018 [caption id="attachment_76305" align="aligncenter" width="960"] Angolan President João Lourenço, left, and
The International Criminal Court was established 20 years ago. Here’s how. Heidi Haddad - July 17, 2018 [caption id="attachment_75719" align="aligncenter" width="960"] Congolese warlord Thomas Lubanga hears the
How rape is weaponized in civil wars Laura Seay - June 29, 2018 [caption id="attachment_75113" align="aligncenter" width="658"] (Cornell University Press)[/caption] When I began
U.N. peacekeeping really can be effective. Here’s how we tabulated this. Lisa Hultman, Håvard Hegre, and Håvard Nygård - June 28, 2018 [caption id="attachment_70668" align="aligncenter" width="960"] A U.N. peacekeeper stands guard as
Armed peacekeepers really do protect civilians — with one big exception Brandon Prins and Anup Phayal - June 14, 2018 [caption id="attachment_74396" align="aligncenter" width="960"] U.N. peacekeepers from Rwanda serve at
A new ‘resource curse’ is fueling riots around the world Renard Sexton - April 25, 2018 [caption id="attachment_72635" align="aligncenter" width="960"] The Kapolowe River outside Lubumbashi, Congo,
I did the first long-term study investigating illegal ivory traders. Here’s what I learned. Kristof Titeca - April 18, 2018 [caption id="attachment_72373" align="alignnone" width="960"] A Zimbabwe National Parks official holds
Should U.N. peacekeepers launch preemptive strikes? The Cruz report seems to think so. Lise Howard - March 16, 2018 [caption id="attachment_70668" align="aligncenter" width="960"] A U.N. peacekeeper stands guard as
Could U.N. peacekeepers help end the war in Ukraine? Richard Gowan - March 1, 2018 [caption id="attachment_69959" align="aligncenter" width="960"] Ukrainian troops fire a howitzer close
What ‘Black Panther’s’ Wakanda can teach us about Africa’s history — and its future Naunihal Singh - February 28, 2018 [caption id="attachment_69877" align="aligncenter" width="960"] Chadwick Boseman in “Black Panther.” (Marvel
What the ‘s—hole’ debate gets wrong about Africa Christopher Day and Beth Whitake - January 18, 2018 [caption id="attachment_68183" align="aligncenter" width="960"] President Trump and Sen. Dick Durbin,
Do women matter to international security? Trump just changed the U.S. government’s answer to that question. Hilary Matfess - January 4, 2018 [caption id="attachment_65578" align="aligncenter" width="960"] Congolese women and their children, who
5 reasons the U.N. Security Council should care about the Burmese military’s sexual assaults on the Rohingya Rachel Vogelstein and Jamille Bigio - January 3, 2018 Burma’s ethnic cleansing campaign against Rohingya Muslims has been rife
U.N. peacekeepers were killed in Congo. Here’s what we know. Christoph Vogel - December 8, 2017 [caption id="attachment_67135" align="aligncenter" width="960"] Armed groups on Thursday attacked this
Four things you should know about food security in Africa Landry Signé and Eyerusalem Siba - October 30, 2017 [caption id="attachment_65578" align="aligncenter" width="960"] Women and their children, who fled
What the JFK assassination files can tell us about the U.S. plot to kill Castro Michael Poznansky - October 30, 2017 [caption id="attachment_65582" align="aligncenter" width="960"] Supporters of Fidel Castro welcome their
War-torn Congo has been called the ‘rape capital of the world.’ Here is how fighters think about sexual violence. Nina Wilén and Bert Ingelaere - August 31, 2017 [caption id="attachment_62716" align="aligncenter" width="960"] People listen to Jan Egeland, then-U.N. undersecretary-general
Information technology can help build peace. This is how. Kristian Hoelscher and Jason Miklian - August 24, 2017 [caption id="attachment_62752" align="aligncenter" width="960"] An AH-64 Apache attack helicopter provides
Within 7 years, refugees are self-sufficient and contributing to the U.S., on average Ramya Vijaya, Monica Miller, and David Fletcher - August 15, 2017 On June 20, World Refugee Day, Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney
This book on child malnutrition will change the way you think about health interventions Kim Yi Dionne - August 11, 2017 [caption id="attachment_62252" align="aligncenter" width="640"] Wearing a dress that celebrates International
This is what we can learn from Joseph Kony’s bodyguard Laura Seay - July 21, 2017 [caption id="attachment_61206" align="aligncenter" width="192"] (Zed Books)[/caption] Five years after the