Inter-state and Intra-state Wars and Conflicts in the Horn of Africa

Abstract

For the last five decades, there have been extensive, continuous, and challenging intra- and inter-state wars and conflicts in the Horn of Africa. As a result, the peace and stability of the region as well as the socioeconomic development and livelihood of the population have suffered greatly. This study explores the reasons for the frequent conflicts in the region, analyzing the different types of conflict that frequently take place in the region. On the basis of a systematic probe of individual studies the conflicts in the region are categorized as state-society conflicts, state-state conflicts, and society-society conflicts. In addition, regardless of how the stake-holders of the region perceive the situation, intra-state and inter-state conflicts in the region have their roots in the long and complex history of state formation processes and struggles, identity conflicts, political economy, competition for scarce resources, and external intervention.