The Role of Regional Organizations in Conflict Transformation : The Case of IGAD's Mediation Efforts in Somalia

The practice and concept of regional organizations as a means conflict transformation is not a new phenomenon in the history of Africa. Since independence, Africa experienced the growth of regional organizations primarily established to facilitate economic development and cooperation. However, they expanded their mandate to incorporate issues of conflict transformation over time. This is because sustainable economic development cannot be achieved without peace and democratic governance. Besides, the escalation of inter-state and intra-state conflicts necessitated the establishment of regional organizations. The Inter-Governmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has played a constructive role to maintain peace and stability in the Horn of Africa. Its role was extended when it assumed mediation efforts in the Sudan and Somalia in the early 1990s. IGAD become the accepted vehicle for regional peace and security. This book argues that IGAD saved Somalia from protracted civil war and political instability by mediating conflicting parties, and by mobilizing the efforts the member states and the international community though it suffered from uncountable limitations.