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Think International is a Roosevelt Publication focused on international relations and studies. The theme of second issue of the publication is Africa. Submission guidelines and deadlines can be found here.
Introduction to the Theme These problems are hardly specific to Kenya. Foreign intervention in Sudan has yet to be successful as international institutions have proven inadequate at stopping genocide, partly due to China’s quest for resources. Botswana is considered to be politically inclusive and economically viable but it must confront an AIDS rate upwards of 40%. From uneven development, to population pressures and the spread of fatal disease and from rampant corruption to human rights violations, Africa must confront a range of maladies and must so through inclusive and sustainable means. There are many bright spots, as Truth and Reconciliation Commissions have helped South Africa recover from years of oppression under Apartheid. The International Criminal Tribunal in Rwanda has been successful in rebuilding a nation ravaged by genocide just a decade ago. Through public and banking sector reforms, private sector investment in Tanzania has led to economic growth. We have chosen to focus on Africa in the second issue of Think International for several reasons. Chapters like the University of Michigan and others have taken a keen interest in the continent. This issue also coincides with targeted outreach efforts to groups like Human Rights First. Most importantly, by broadly examining issues relating to Africa we will be contributing to the debate over how to positively reform American foreign policy and the policies of other relevant nations and organizations. When thinking about Africa be sure consider the role of foreign intervention and investment, sustainable development, government responses to AIDS and Malaria, power transition and political inclusion, the United Nations, the African Union and the effect of these institutions and practices on either/or domestic politics and intra-state politics when writing. We look forward to your submissions! Suggested Background Topics These are only suggestions, not guidelines. Feel free to write about other relevant and important topics. 1. Give a history of the African Union and evaluate both its successes and failures. Is the institution a valuable avenue for intervention in both interstate and intrastate conflict? A similar piece can be written concerning United Nations intervention or unilateral intervention from nations like France or the United States.2. Discuss state-specific histories. Be sure to discuss governance under colonial rule, independence movements, struggles over valuable resources and whether or not the state has a strong central government and if the strong state is at the cost of political freedom. These backgrounder pieces should briefly address the current situation of the state and why historical trends are important for future success. Suggested states: Chad, South Africa, Uganda, Eritria. (Kenya was once communist!) Point-Counterpoint Prompt The following prompts have been chosen by the publication coordinators based on their relevance to the current issue of Think International, and on their contemporary relevance. Creativity is encouraged, and proposals for additional subjects will be considered. Direct such proposals here. 1. Colonialism and its practices have greatly contributed to Africa’s problems. Discuss the role of colonial powers in a comparative sense. What did the French do that the Belgians didn’t? What role did the colonial powers play in dividing Africa up both geographically and politically? How does the division contribute to current conflict? As a counterpoint, argue that colonialism was not the main driving force in Africa’s current situation. Address leadership, economic development and population pressures in post-colonial Africa. Suggestions for Feature Article Topics 1. Robert Mugabe is 83. Discuss a post-Mugabe Zimbabwe. What can be done to reestablish order and address an estimated 30,000% inflation rate? Should international intervention be structured so as to stabilize Zimbabwe and train individuals to run viable government functions?2. Discuss the role of valuable resources or foreign aid and corruption. 3. Any analysis of current political structures either between states or within states themselves. You can choose to address a failed state, a successful state or a middle of the road state. What problems are ailing the country and what can be done |
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