Diversity management in Africa: findings from the African peer review mechanism and a framework for analysis and policy-making

Abstract

This paper has four principal objectives. The first is to conceptualize diversity of identities and to briefly define identity relations. Since identity is a complex concept encompassing various elements, its conceptualization is essential for identifying the parameters of diversity management. The second objective is to compile and classify into typologies the empirical findings from the African peer review mechanism (APRM) process on diversity-based conflicts in 13 countries, which have completed the review process. The third objective is to construct an empirically grounded theoretical framework that explains the conditions, which transform diversity into a source of violent conflicts. The fourth objective is to compile the various recommendations of the APRM reports, explain their relevance, and to complement them with lessons learned from the best practices of African countries, which have made notable progress in diversity management. The structural and institutional changes that the theoretical analysis identified as having the potential to transform the diversity-related conflicts are also used as a road map in strengthening the APRM policy suggestions. The paper is organized into four parts, each dealing with one of the four principal objectives.