The war in the Democratic Republic of the Congo: a metaphorical analysis and implications for the Southern African Development Community (SADC)

bibliographic database
Line

Periodical article

Title:	The war in the Democratic Republic of the Congo: a metaphorical analysis and implications for the Southern African Development Community (SADC)
Author:	Ngoma, N.
Year:	2001
Periodical:	Nigerian Journal of International Affairs
Volume:	27
Issue:	1-2
Pages:	130-162
Language:	English
Geographic term:	Congo (Democratic Republic of)
Subjects:	civil wars international politics SADC
Abstract:	This article provides a brief history of the recent conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), which began in August 1998. It examines how the DRC's request for assistance from the SADC States has led to an acrimonious relationship between some of these States, and threatened the existence of the SADC itself. Some SADC States have been regarded as militaristic in nature (Zimbabwe, Namibia and Angola, the 'hawks') while others have been keen to adopt a more peaceful approach (Zambia, the 'dove'). There are also those whose motives are unclear (South Africa, the 'penguin'). In addition to analysing the efficacy of the SADC when confronted with intraregional dynamics, the author points to external dynamics emanating from such external interests as the United States of America and the European Union as possibly one of the biggest threats to the existence of the SADC. Notes, ref., sum. [Journal abstract]