Routledge Handbook of Conflict Response and Leadership in Africa

This handbook explores the challenges and opportunities for leadership and conflict response in Africa at several levels, including macro, meso, and micro. It emphasizes the need to examine leadership at all levels to understand conflict dynamics and tailor localized conflict transformation approaches to wider national or regional structures. The volume includes multidisciplinary essays that cover the psychological, political, and structural dimensions of conflict response and demonstrate how leadership style is crucial for success. It will be of interest to students of conflict resolution, peace studies, African politics, security studies, and international relations.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 408 pages
Publication date: 25 September 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive handbook delves into the complexities and prospects of leadership and conflict response within the African context,spanning various levels. While leadership's impact on conflict resolution is widely acknowledged, its examination often remains limited to the macro-level, encompassing state, government, and international organizations. Recognizing the need for a more comprehensive approach, this handbook explores the challenges and opportunities for leadership at multiple levels: macro (global, regional, national), meso (NGOs, religious groups, academics), and micro (civil society organizations, youth groups, women's organizations). By analyzing conflict dynamics from multiple perspectives, the handbook provides a broader understanding of conflict dynamics and facilitates the integration of localized conflict transformation approaches into broader national or regional structures.

The multidisciplinary essays presented in this volume delve into the psychological, political, and structural dimensions of conflict response, highlighting the fundamental link between the effectiveness of leadership and its success. The volume is organized into four thematic sections:

Part I: The theory and dynamics of conflict response and leadership

In this section, scholars examine the theoretical frameworks and mechanisms that shape conflict response and leadership. They explore the factors that contribute to conflict, the processes of conflict resolution, and the roles that leaders play in these processes. The section also examines the challenges and opportunities that arise in conflict-prone environments, such as post-conflict reconstruction, peacebuilding, and managing inter-communal tensions.

Part II: Macro-level leadership experiences in conflict response

This section showcases case studies and examples of effective leadership at the macro-level in conflict response. It examines the leadership roles played by governments, international organizations, and regional bodies in addressing conflicts in Africa. The section explores the strategies, tactics, and challenges encountered by these leaders in navigating complex political landscapes and fostering peace and stability.

Part III: Meso-/micro-level leadership experiences in conflict response

This section focuses on the leadership experiences of NGOs, religious groups, academic institutions, and civil society organizations at the meso-/micro-level. It explores the unique challenges and opportunities these organizations face in conflict response, such as building community resilience, promoting social cohesion, and providing humanitarian assistance. The section also examines the role of these leaders in advocating for peace and justice and promoting sustainable development.

Part IV: Recommendations for improved leadership in conflict response

In this section, scholars offer insights and recommendations for enhancing leadership in conflict response. They discuss the importance of building strong leadership capacity, promoting inclusive and collaborative approaches, and fostering a culture of peace and respect. The section also explores the role of education, training, and mentorship in developing effective leaders and promoting sustainable peacebuilding.

This handbook is a valuable resource for students, scholars, policymakers, and practitioners interested in conflict resolution, peace studies, African politics, security studies, and international relations. It provides a comprehensive and multidisciplinary perspective on leadership and conflict response in Africa, offering insights and practical recommendations for building more effective and sustainable peacebuilding efforts in the region.

Weight: 453g
Dimension: 246 x 174 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032043197