Publication
Title
Path dependence and critical junctures : three decades of interstate conflict in the African great lakes region
Author
Abstract
As opposed to the three decades following independence, interstate wars have become frequent in the African great lakes region since 1990. This article analyses the unravelling of these wars and looks at their causes and consequences. The conceptual framework to analyse the clear but convoluted line linking these conflicts is that of path dependence and critical junctures. Each stage is defined in these terms. The article shows that path dependence is the main explanatory factor, but that critical junctures have played out at crucial moments, including when the initial stage was set in Uganda. It concludes that a very longue durée path dependence can be found in Rwanda, where most threads of the conflicts converge. However, it also finds that extreme state weakness in Zaire/DR Congo has been and still is a major contributory factor to the cross-border violence. The article finally argues that the conceptual framework is not only useful as an analytical tool, but may also assist efforts in conflict prevention and management.
Language
English
Source (journal)
Conflict, security & development. - Abingdon
Publication
Abingdon : 2020
ISSN
1467-8802
1478-1174 [online]
DOI
10.1080/14678802.2020.1852720
Volume/pages
20 :6 (2020) , p. 747-762
ISI
000598032000001
Full text (Publisher's DOI)
Full text (open access)
Full text (publisher's version - intranet only)
UAntwerpen
Faculty/Department
Research group
Publication type
Subject
Affiliation
Publications with a UAntwerp address
External links
VABB-SHW
Web of Science
Record
Identifier
Creation 21.01.2021
Last edited 17.08.2024
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