Africa’s Security Dilemma: AFRICOM and Beyond

On September 5, 2008, the African Development Institute (ADI), a New York based African think tank, will hold its 5^th annual policy forum to discuss the state of African security.

Social, economic, and military security in Africa are of the essence today, especially in the aftermath of the crises in Kenya, Ivory Coast, and the ongoing turmoil in Zimbabwe.   The outbreak of violence, along with the impending launch of the U.S. African security initiative, African Command (AFRICOM) have brought African security into sharper focus over the past few months.   The issue of collective security is particularly topical, especially since development cannot flourish in the absence of peace.  But what is “African security” and what is Africa’s best option for achieving it?  The African Union and regional organizations have proffered their own solutions to Africa’s security dilemma, but are they effective?  ADI will tackle these and related questions during its 5^th annual policy forum.

The forum will convene representatives from the U.S. Department of State, diplomatic missions, United Nations, African Union, African scholars and non-governmental organizations.  The forum will be held at The NY Harvard Club located at 35 West 44^th Street.   

An audience of approximately 100 people is expected to participate in this free event. 

DATE:    September 5, 2008

TIME:    6:00-9:00 p.m.