Intervention and Transnationalism in Africa: Global-Local Networks of Power

Description

As the idea of globalization emerges as a key concept in social sciences in the twenty-first century, understanding how external forces and phenomena shape the politics of nation-states and communities is imperative. This volume calls attention to 'transboundary formations' - intersections of cross-border, national and local forces that produce, destroy or transform local order and political authority, significantly impacting on ordinary people's lives. It analyzes the intervention of external forces in political life, both deepening and broadening the concept of international 'intervention' and the complex contexts within which it unfolds. While transboundary formations can emerge anywhere, they have a particular salience in sub-Saharan Africa where the limits to state power make them especially pervasive and consequential. Including conceptual contributions and theoretically-informed case studies, the volume considers global-local connections, taking a fresh perspective on contemporary Africa's political constraints and possibilities, with important implications for other parts of the world.

'The book under review is a profoundly satisfying volume ... and deserves wide attention ... This is a good book and deserves to be on the bookshelf of any serious Africanist. The chapters are admirable as stand-alone pieces that might be used in the classroom and the last chapter on a future research agenda should give many a graduate student inspiration and reflection.' International Affairs 'The book contains chapters on a wide range of transboundary phenomena: both legal and illegal, state and non-state, including the UN and international financial institutions (Barnett, Latham, Callaghy); illicit trade in diamond and weapons (Nordstrom, Reno): human rights (obi); private security firms and mercenaries (Reno, Roitman): and NGOs (Callaghy, Schmitz, Obi). It is a highly stimulating book which should be essential reading for students of African politics, international relations and globalization alike.' Journal of Peace Research 'This is an excellent collection ... a fascinating examination ... this book attempts something different ... this provides a core reading for all scholars interested in Africa and the global system.' Modern African Studies