The New World Order and National Security Dynamics of African States: Case Study Cameroon and Mali

Chick Edmond, Old Dominion University
Nyongbet Gabsa Wilfred, University of Yaoundé II Soa, Cameroon
Dekoum Ta Nda Hugues Martin, University of Yaoundé II Soa, Cameroon

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 approaches in enhancing national security policies on the African 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 security approaches in enhancing national security interests. Cameroon has a steadfast ontological security since from its independence while Mali is ambiguous. This paper will provide a comprehensible insight into how the global trend and national security dynamics in Africa are adapting to various international structures by aligning or cooperating with global powers. The findings demonstrate that both countries face almost the same security challenges but have diverse approaches in enforcing and navigating their security mechanisms. 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 from 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.

 

The New World Order and National Security Dynamics of African States: Case Study Cameroon and Mali

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 approaches in enhancing national security policies on the African 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 security approaches in enhancing national security interests. Cameroon has a steadfast ontological security since from its independence while Mali is ambiguous. This paper will provide a comprehensible insight into how the global trend and national security dynamics in Africa are adapting to various international structures by aligning or cooperating with global powers. The findings demonstrate that both countries face almost the same security challenges but have diverse approaches in enforcing and navigating their security mechanisms. 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 from 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.