Peace and Security Council Report No 30

The post-Mubarak Egypt is faced with numerous difficulties. The polarized public and political debate coupled with mistrust and division amongst the various state, political and social groups and institutions is hindering a meaningful and genuine discussion, impeding a consensus on what values and how to build the future of a democratic Egypt. The analysis on Egypt sheds light on the evolving internal political and security dynamics in Egypt and the challenges for democratic transformation as the nation holds series of elections and awaits a transfer of power to a democratically elected government.

During the past two months of 2011, Somalia saw increased levels of bombing attacks with deadly consequences. Despite the growing pressure from the AU forces and regional states notably Kenya, and the losses it suffered in recent months, the threat that Al Shabaab poses has evolved as it has just changed its tactics from ground battle to guerilla style operations. The piece on Somalia builds possible scenarios in coming months in light of growing role of regional powers and the AU mission in Somalia.

The first edition of the PSC Report for year 2012 also brings into light ongoing efforts by the African Union Commission to reinforce its instruments relating to democracy, good governance, rule of law and human rights. The report also looks into the mandates and challenges faced by one of the components of the continental security architecture, the Military Staff Committee.

Duke Kent-Brown (Editor)