Development of civilian capacities for African peace support operations : contributions of the Training for Peace Programme

Abstract

When the African Standby Force (ASF) was conceptualised in the early 2000s, one important determinant for its operationalisation was the requirement for a multidimensional approach that would serve to address the comprehensive set of needs of countries as they transitioned from conflict to peace. This approach was appropriate given the human effects and implications of insecurity and conflict on the lives and livelihoods of civilians the continent over. In addition to the human toll, the rule of law, justice and other state functions and institutions became further decimated in these conflicts. As such, it became increasingly important that in finding solutions, efforts were made to address such issues as related to governance, human rights and development - all of which required attention beyond the hard military-security realm.