Norm revisionists, not norm breakers: the emerging multipolar landscape of peace operations

Abstract

In the past two decades, the ability of African countries to contribute assets to peace operations has increased to a remarkable degree. Undeniably, this surge is contributing in sum to stabilising different conflict areas and demonstrates the willingness and ability to take on peace enforcement mandates. Using selected field missions in Africa which manifest collective efforts in several conflict and post-conflict situations, this paper considers the changing nature of peace operations in the context of contemporary dynamics in power capabilities. What is the motivation for African countries to contribute troops to current peace operations? What form will future missions take? And how will regional and global structures pool resources for crisis situations?