| Description |
1 online resource (ii, 39 pages) : color maps |
| Series |
Africa report ; no. 251 |
|
ICG Africa report ; no. 251.
|
| Contents |
Introduction -- A recurrent policy dilemma -- Lessons from the past -- Conclusion |
| Summary |
"As weak African states face growing insurgencies, they do what weak states tend to do: subcontract certain security functions to non-state actors or vigilante groups, many of which had taken up arms to protect their communities. This approach at times is viewed as a necessity, but is often dangerous, particularly in politically fluid and fractious states. The more fragile the state, the more it is dependent on vigilantes, but also the less able it is to police them or prevent abuse of power. The more successful the vigilante group against insurgents, the harder it is to demobilise, and the more likely it will become entrenched. As a result of ethnic rivalries and allegiances, community defence groups can morph into predatory, quasi-criminal organisations or enemies of the central state. Yet even when risks outweigh benefits, African leaders may not have the luxury of choice. At a minimum, African governments and their international backers should learn from the past, try to prevent abuses, guard against vigilantes' mission creep and plan how to manage them once the conflict dies down"--Publisher's web site |
| Notes |
"7 September 2017." |
| Bibliography |
Includes bibliographical references |
| Notes |
Online resource; title from PDF title page (ICG, viewed September 8, 2017) |
| Subject |
Vigilantes -- Africa
|
|
Counterinsurgency -- Africa
|
|
Counterinsurgency.
|
|
Vigilantes.
|
|
Africa.
|
| Form |
Electronic book
|
| Author |
International Crisis Group, issuing body.
|
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