Contemporary Security Issues in Africa: (Praeger Security International)

As a comprehensive resource for readers interested in contemporary security issues in Africa, this compelling book details the impact of complex challenges in Africa and explains why addressing them grows increasingly important. Presenting both general overviews and specific case studies, this book introduces contemporary security issues in Africa, home to more than thirty of the fifty most fragile nations in the world. It covers the past three decades of conflict on the continent, focusing on such topics as weak and failing states, ethnic conflict and civil wars, natural resources and environmental security, political violence and terrorism, piracy and maritime security, food security and poverty, international responses, and future prospects. The core of the book comprises detailed analysis of the nexus between culture, politics, and security in Africa, while the volume as a whole examines key regional and transnational security issues affecting Africa and their implications at the state, regional, and international levels. The book explores the dynamic role that African nations play in influencing international security and investigates and articulates factors heightening the importance of Africa's role in international affairs.

Table of Contents:
Acknowledgments Abbreviations 1. Contemporary Security Issues in Africa 2. Weak and Fragile States 3. Ethno-Religious Conflict and Civil Wars 4. Natural Resources and Environmental Security 5. Violent Extremism and Terrorism 6. Piracy and Maritime Security 7. Food Security and Extreme Poverty 8. International Responses 9. Linkages and Future Prospects Chronology Notes Selected Bibliography Index

About the Author :
William A. Taylor is associate professor of security studies at Angelo State University in San Angelo, USA. His published works include Every Citizen a Soldier: The Campaign for Universal Military Training after World War II.

Review :
A thoroughly-researched examination of a range of critical security issues facing Sub-Saharan Africa, Taylor's work reflects his skillful ability to tackle his subject matter with clarity, precision and insight, strongly supported by the latest research. A highly recommended, solid foundation for students, regional analysts, and scholars, this work constitutes an important contribution to scholarship on the subject. William A. Taylor presents an impassioned account of Africa’s multi-faceted security environment in the contemporary period, highlighting Africa’s role and the potentially caustic impact of external interests. This book moves beyond the realm of traditional analysis, marrying dimensions of critical security studies with other scholarly disciplines. Insightful and skillfully written, this book should serve as an important foundation for future studies on the strategic importance of Africa. William A. Taylor has written what is arguably the most comprehensive work on security issues in contemporary Africa till date. From ethno-religious violence to conflict over natural resources and food security, he takes readers into Africa’s complex experience with nation-building across multiple national boundaries, offering new insights based on carefully mined primary sources and attention to local dynamics. Contemporary Security Issues in Africa is a successful project by all standards. In his newest book, William A. Taylor delivers a skillful and lucid examination of the broad spectrum of important security matters impacting Africa. Artfully balancing historical context with contemporary analysis, he provides readers with insightful synopses as well as useful case studies delving into specific countries. In evaluating the myriad ways that security influences Africa, Taylor explains in cogent and concise prose why these issues matter to Africa and to the rest of the world. Contemporary Security Issues in Africa is an essential foundation for anyone interested in how these crucial topics manifest themselves on the continent. Contemporary Security Issues in Africa offers readers an excellent introduction to its subject matter. Taylor effectively utilizes country-specific cases to make sense of a variety of complex and challenging security issues affecting an exceptionally diverse and dynamic continent. Taylor’s focus and informed analysis drives home the value of security not only for its own sake, but also as a precursor for additional political, economic, and social progress. Highly recommended. An excellent primer for anyone trying to understand the complexities of African conflict. William A. Taylor has written an accessible and illuminating survey that will be useful for people of all levels of experience with these critical issues.