ISS Seminar: Emergence of Islamic Courts Union in Somalia: Implications for peace and security in the Horn of Africa

Date: 2006-11-08 to Invalid date

ISS Seminar: Emergence of Islamic Courts Union in Somalia: Implications for peace and security in the Horn of Africa
Pretoria, 8 November 2006

Featured Presenter: Mohamed A. Guyo, Acting Director, ISS Nairobi Office

The victory of the Union of Islamic Courts (UIC) over the United States-backed warlords in June 2006 represents a seismic shift in Somalia and regional peace and security. The latest conflict ironically flared up after the successful conclusion of the IGAD peace process in Somalia and the subsequent installation of the Transitional Federal Government (TFG) led by Col. Abdullahi Yussuf. Domestically, the rise of Islamic courts and the subsequent demise of the warlordism have rekindled both hope and fear. The emergence of the UIC has also heralded significant shift in Somalia politics, which has long been dominated by clan politics. For the first time in fifteen years, a single authority (UIC) is in charge of Mogadishu and most of the territory in southern Somalia. Equally, the emerging political configuration in Somalia has also witnessed significant geopolitical dynamics, particularly within the Horn of Africa. Some regional actors have already intervened in Somalia either in support of the UIC or the TFG. It is now apparent that the stage is set for a full regional conflict that will impact on international peace and security.

This seminar will trace the evolution of the Islamic courts, and critically analyse the issues that ignited the current conflict, actors (internal and external) and their interests. The seminar will also reflect on the impact of the changes taking place in Somalia on peace and security in the Horn of Africa, and the prospects and challenges facing the current Arab League Peace Initiative between the UIC and the TFG.  

Date:Wednesday, 08 November 2006

Venue: ISS Conference Room, Block C, Brooklyn Court, 361 Veale Street, New Muckleneuk
(Parking in Brooklyn Mall and ABSA Court)

Time: 10h00 to 12h30

RSVP: Charlene Harry

Tel: (012) 346 9500

Fax: (012) 460 0997

E-mail: [email protected]