Leadership, Nation-building and War in South Sudan: The Problems of Statehood and Collective Will

The book challenges the notion that the continued violence in South Sudan can be reduced to identity difference or the fault of individual leaders, arguing that the core driving force behind the current conflict is a set of destructive relationships that have fueled violence and oppression for the better part of a century.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 216 pages
Publication date: 30 June 2022
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

For over fifty years, the people of South Sudan fought tirelessly for the right to establish an independent nation-state. Their unwavering determination and resilience finally bore fruit when, after decades of struggle, they achieved this cherished goal. However, as time passed, it became increasingly apparent that the South Sudanese nation was far less cohesive than initially envisioned. The consequences of this unforeseen development were catastrophic, leading to a devastating civil war that has ravaged the country for years.

This book delves into the nation-building struggle of South Sudan, spanning from its inception to the present civil war. It challenges the prevailing notion that the ongoing violence can be attributed solely to identity differences or the actions of individual leaders. Instead, the book employs a leadership perspective to understand the intricate progressions and complex relationships that have shaped South Sudan's nation-building trajectory.

The book argues that the root cause of the current conflict in South Sudan lies not in ethnicity, the "resource curse," or power struggles, but in a series of destructive relationships that have plagued the country for nearly a century. These relationships have perpetuated violence and oppression, trapping South Sudan in a cyclical leadership process that has led to an increasingly destructive and contradictory nation-building process.

As the country continues to spiral and disintegrate, it is crucial to examine the underlying factors that have contributed to this tragic situation. The book highlights the need for a comprehensive approach that addresses the underlying social, economic, and political issues that have plagued South Sudan throughout its history. It emphasizes the importance of promoting dialogue, reconciliation, and cooperation among all stakeholders, including the government, opposition groups, and communities affected by the conflict.

Furthermore, the book calls for international intervention and support to address the humanitarian crisis and provide assistance to those who have been displaced and affected by the war. It emphasizes the importance of building sustainable institutions and promoting economic development to create a foundation for long-term stability and prosperity.

In conclusion, this book offers a critical examination of the nation-building struggle of South Sudan and challenges the prevailing narratives that have contributed to the country's current crisis. It provides a comprehensive analysis of the factors that have fueled violence and oppression and proposes a roadmap for rebuilding and reconciling the South Sudanese nation. By addressing the root causes of the conflict and promoting a sustainable and inclusive approach to nation-building, South Sudan has the potential to emerge from its current darkness and build a brighter future for its people.

Weight: 340g
Dimension: 155 x 234 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780755622139