Contemporary Security Issues in Africa

Reviews / Votes

A thoroughly-researched examination of a range of critical security issues facing Sub-Saharan Africa, Taylor's work reflects his skillful ability to tackle his subject matter with clarity, precision and insight, strongly supported by the latest research. A highly recommended, solid foundation for students, regional analysts, and scholars, this work constitutes an important contribution to scholarship on the subject. * Gregory Fremont-Barnes, Senior Lecturer, Royal Military Academy, UK * William A. Taylor presents an impassioned account of Africa's multi-faceted security environment in the contemporary period, highlighting Africa's role and the potentially caustic impact of external interests. This book moves beyond the realm of traditional analysis, marrying dimensions of critical security studies with other scholarly disciplines. Insightful and skillfully written, this book should serve as an important foundation for future studies on the strategic importance of Africa. * Scott N. Romaniuk, Newton International Fellow, University of South Wales, UK * William A. Taylor has written what is arguably the most comprehensive work on security issues in contemporary Africa till date. From ethno-religious violence to conflict over natural resources and food security, he takes readers into Africa's complex experience with nation-building across multiple national boundaries, offering new insights based on carefully mined primary sources and attention to local dynamics. Contemporary Security Issues in Africa is a successful project by all standards. * Saheed Aderinto, Professor of History, African and African Diaspora Studies, Florida International University, USA * In his newest book, William A. Taylor delivers a skillful and lucid examination of the broad spectrum of important security matters impacting Africa. Artfully balancing historical context with contemporary analysis, he provides readers with insightful synopses as well as useful case studies delving into specific countries. In evaluating the myriad ways that security influences Africa, Taylor explains in cogent and concise prose why these issues matter to Africa and to the rest of the world. Contemporary Security Issues in Africa is an essential foundation for anyone interested in how these crucial topics manifest themselves on the continent. * Dr. Lawrence J. Korb, Senior Fellow, Center for American Progress, USA * Contemporary Security Issues in Africa offers readers an excellent introduction to its subject matter. Taylor effectively utilizes country-specific cases to make sense of a variety of complex and challenging security issues affecting an exceptionally diverse and dynamic continent. Taylor's focus and informed analysis drives home the value of security not only for its own sake, but also as a precursor for additional political, economic, and social progress. Highly recommended. * Nathaniel Cogley, Assistant Professor of Political Science, Tarleton State University, USA * An excellent primer for anyone trying to understand the complexities of African conflict. William A. Taylor has written an accessible and illuminating survey that will be useful for people of all levels of experience with these critical issues. * Joshua Meservey, Senior Policy Analyst, Africa and the Middle East, The Heritage Foundation, USA *