Brothers and Sisters from Another Mother–Promoting Inter-cultural Understanding, Conflict Reduction, and Solidarity Among Partner Forces in the Sahel

Authors

Alain Tschudin, International Centre of Nonviolence, Durban University of Technology; Stellenbosch University; University of Cambridge
James Smith, International Centre of Nonviolence, Durban University of Technology

Abstract

The dynamics of war have changed markedly from conventional battlefield kinetic encounters to unconventional sub-threshold or asymmetric warfare, with combatants using new tactics and emergent technologies to gain a comparative advantage over their adversaries. In the face of such developments and mindful of globalized extremist challenges, we propose that fresh innovations should be encouraged with respect to the conventional training of international and African partner forces tasked with teaming up to engage security threats in the Sahel region. Accordingly, this article promotes a contemporary peacebuilding approach using a transformative, dialogical methodology that focuses on the promotion of greater inter-cultural understanding between local security forces and their external allies. We suggest that such an intervention is cost-effective, sustainable, adaptable, and replicable, insofar as it builds unity and shared understanding, and reduces direct and indirect violence (e.g., green-on-blue casualties and resentment toward different troops). It increases motivation and strengthens solidarity in the field to help partners work toward shared goals and enhanced operational effectiveness, which in turn results in conflict reduction and a more sustainable peace.

Recommended Citation

Tschudin, Alain and Smith, James (2024) "Brothers and Sisters from Another Mother–Promoting Inter-cultural Understanding, Conflict Reduction, and Solidarity Among Partner Forces in the Sahel," New England Journal of Public Policy: Vol. 36: Iss. 1, Article 7.
Available at: https://scholarworks.umb.edu/nejpp/vol36/iss1/7