Abstract:
This study examines the Intergovernmental Authority on Development
(IGAD) and conflict resolution in Somalia. For more than two decades, Somalia has
been the only country in the world without a functional government. While
Somaliland and Puntland have been relatively peaceful since 1991, the southern
section of the country has been torn apart by conflict between numerous tribes,
warlords, and Islamist organizations. Regional and international organizations have
expressed alarm over the continued violence in Somalia, which occurs in one of
Africa's most unstable areas.
IGAD has been actively attempting to end Somalia's long-running civil war.
While the international world has ignored this crisis chiefly, IGAD member nations
have invested their resources, time, and energy in resolving it. However, the main
hurdles to numerous peace endeavors are found in Somalia itself. Due to the war,
power distribution, resource distribution, land ownership, and property have become
more difficult. Clan rivalries have also been exacerbated, allowing political elites to
further their agenda to the detriment of the country as a whole. Politicians and others
who stand to gain from the current state of instability have multiplied, leading to the
failure of several efforts.
There is no evidence that foreign parties impacted Somalia's war. States and
non-state entities have provided weaponry and financial support to various fighting
parties at multiple points. The crisis in Somalia has pulled in neighboring countries,
Arab countries, and Western countries for various reasons, including terrorism and
security concerns. Converging national interests among IGAD member nations was
challenging since they all have their interests at heart. Inter-state and intra-state wars,
poverty, and humanitarian crises weaken IGAD member nations, reducing the
organization's ability and focus
