Study on potential sources of conflict, unresolved local, bilateral and regional issues and the role of civil society in Africa

Abstract

Conflicts have serious economic, social and human costs which impact on almost all citizens. Therefore, this paper is, first, intended to sensitize all stakeholders on the disruptive effects of conflicts. A second objective is to analyze the important role that civil society organizations can play especially at an early stage before conflicts have declared or get out of control in Africa. Thirdly. it seeks to encourage all influential Civil society actors, including elderly people, women groups, youth associations to play an active role and complement governments and development partners efforts in conflict prevention. management and resolution. Among the major issues to be addressed, an attempt will be made. despite their complexity, to classify conflicts with a view to securing a better understanding of their causes. Cases in point and issues not resolved to-date would also be illustrated. The study will then go on to focus on the role that civil society can and should play in conflict prevention, management and resolution. There already are many examples of the involvement of civil society organizations (CSOs) in conflict resolution and prevention that will be reviewed in order to draw useful lessons.