Student Type
Graduate
University
Old Dominion University
Country
Cameroon
Document Type
Conference Paper
ORCiD
0009-0006-9633-0945 (Edmond)
Description/Abstract
This paper seeks to investigate the impact of the new World order on national security dynamics of African states. The case study chosen was Cameroon and Mali because of their diverse security approach in enhancing national security policies on the continent. The paper ponders on how the evolving global political landscape is shifting power dynamics and emerging threats influencing security strategies of these two countries. The notion of ontological security was vital in examining why both states adopt different approaches in enhancing their national security interests. Cameroon has a steadfast ontological security since from its independence while Mali is ambiguous. This paper will provide a comprehensible insight on how the global trend and national security dynamics in Africa are adapting to various global structures by aligning or cooperating with global powers. The findings demonstrate that both countries face almost the same security challenges though they have diverse approaches in enforcing and navigating their security policies. Their use of coercion seems to be their most efficient tool in neutralizing security threats while downplaying democratic governance. The research methodology adopted was a comparative design with extensive document review specifically on security policies adopted by both countries. The papers also recommend strengthening democratic governance and bridging the gap between the poor and the rich will help eradicates some of these security challenges faced by African states.
Keywords
New World Order, National security and dynamics
Disciplines
African Studies | Defense and Security Studies | International Relations
DOI
10.25776/y6rc-gj66
Session Title
Democracy, Development, and Disinformation
Location
Chesapeake Room, ODU Webb Center
Start Date
3-21-2025 1:30 PM
End Date
3-21-2025 2:50 PM
Upload File
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Included in
African Studies Commons, Defense and Security Studies Commons, International Relations Commons
The New World Order and National Security Dynamics of African States: Case Study Cameroon and Mali
Chesapeake Room, ODU Webb Center
This paper seeks to investigate the impact of the new World order on national security dynamics of African states. The case study chosen was Cameroon and Mali because of their diverse security approach in enhancing national security policies on the continent. The paper ponders on how the evolving global political landscape is shifting power dynamics and emerging threats influencing security strategies of these two countries. The notion of ontological security was vital in examining why both states adopt different approaches in enhancing their national security interests. Cameroon has a steadfast ontological security since from its independence while Mali is ambiguous. This paper will provide a comprehensible insight on how the global trend and national security dynamics in Africa are adapting to various global structures by aligning or cooperating with global powers. The findings demonstrate that both countries face almost the same security challenges though they have diverse approaches in enforcing and navigating their security policies. Their use of coercion seems to be their most efficient tool in neutralizing security threats while downplaying democratic governance. The research methodology adopted was a comparative design with extensive document review specifically on security policies adopted by both countries. The papers also recommend strengthening democratic governance and bridging the gap between the poor and the rich will help eradicates some of these security challenges faced by African states.