Cross-border Conflicts Research Articles

Power Dynamics of Cross-Border Conflict in Lebanon and Syria

This paper identifies the main conflict actors in cross-border conflict across Lebanon and Syria as being Hezbollah and the Syrian Arab Armed Forces, and highlights the power hierarchies between those actors as well as between them and ordinary people in those border regions. The paper shows that in those two countries, both state and non-state actors (de factor authorities) are the main conflict actors who are invested in the conflict status quo that they profiteer from—the state is therefore also part of the problem. The paper additionally argues that there is a need to understand hierarchies of power among conflict actors and how they position local communities at the bottom of the conflict economy pyramid. The paper shows that local communities end up entangled in the conflict economy for the sake of economic coping and survival. Often, both conflict actors and local communities act pragmatically rather than ideologically for the sake of economic survival or gain, but conflict actors trap local communities in the coping economy by removing alternatives, cultivating relationships of dependency by coping communities on major conflict actors. The paper uses these conclusions to present recommendations for conflict response policies. The paper is published as part of the Cross-Border Conflict, Policy and Trends (XCEPT) research programme funded by UK International Development.

Держава і державність: сучасні геополітичні та міжнародно-правові загрози

Modern doctrinal approaches to the definition of the concepts of “state” and “statehood” are debatable and sometimes controversial, which necessitates their clarification in view of the existing global and local trends. It is suggested that “statehood” is broader than the concept of “state”. The former is associated with independence, state sovereignty, the existence of state and municipal authorities, a system of legal norms and their international recognition. The main characteristics of statehood include the national selfidentity of the population of the State, the embodiment of the interests of the national community in the State’s independence, recognition of such a State on the world stage and its participation in international relations. The author clarifies that the concept of “statehood” is not identical to “state”. It is determined that the geopolitical and international legal threats that have a direct impact on the sovereignty and independence of the State include: external and internal armed conflicts, uncontrolled migration, global extremism and terrorism; non-linear methods of warfare, creation of new “zones of tension”, energy revolution, growing social and economic inequality, civil conflicts, strengthening of the role of nation-states, cross-border conflicts, etc. It is noted that these factors also have an indirect impact on statehood through the “blurring” of the self-identity of the state’s population, questioning of its sovereignty, and as a result, the loss of legal personality on the world stage. The author emphasizes that the negative consequences of these influences on statehood may lead to the disappearance of the state itself in the historical perspective. That is why timely countermeasures should be taken to counter such geopolitical and international legal threats.

Cross-Border Conflicts and Social-Economic Development along the Kenya-Ethiopia Border: A Case of Northwestern Kenya

Purpose: Kenya borders South Sudan, Ethiopia, and Uganda on the western side. The border is ladened with cross-border conflict involving the Turkana of Kenya, Dasanach and Nyangatom of Ethiopia, Toposa of South Sudan, and Karamoja of Uganda. The cross-border conflicts between Kenya and Ethiopia continue to ravage the social-economic development of cross-border communities on the border of Kenya. Thus, this study focused on managing the cross-border conflict and improving economic growth on the Kenyan northwestern border and Kenya-Ethiopia relations. Methodology: The study used an explanatory research design and multistage sampling. The study sampled the targeted population of 65,218 respondents of the Turkana North constituency. A descriptive analysis of 392 respondents was used in questionnaires, focus group discussions, and observation to collect quantitative and qualitative data. Findings: The findings indicate a high prevalence of cross-border conflicts, their considerable impacts on the social and economic development of the affected areas and communities, and varying levels of effectiveness of various interventions to resolve the issue. After examining the effect of cross-border conflicts on the social economic development of the Kenya-Ethiopia border, the findings showed that locals on the Kenyan side were victims of cross-border attacks from Merille of Ethiopia, as revealed by 76% of the respondents. The study acknowledged the presence of interventions for Managing cross-border Conflicts and Social Economic Development in Turkana County, Kenya-Ethiopia Border administrative mechanisms in managing cross-border conflicts and improving Kenya-Ethiopia relations. The study concluded that the effectiveness of these strategies would enhance the capacity of Kenya and Ethiopia to alleviate the social economic growth of the people and boost relations in the region. The study evaluated measures for enhancing the interventions for managing Cross-border Conflict and Social Economic Development in Turkana County, Kenya-Ethiopia Border. The study documented the state's various actions to mitigate, reduce, or eradicate cross-border conflict in northwestern Kenya. These actions were meant to address cross-border conflict and improve the social economic development of the area. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Constructivist perspective to the cross-border conflict on Kenyan-Ethiopian conflict allows for a better understanding of how identity, norms, and perceptions contribute to the prevalence and persistence of the conflicts. Such perspectives provide a more nuanced approach to the issues that transcend the traditional economic and geopolitical factors to consider the cultural and social aspects of the cross-border conflict. The study concludes that the effective implementation of the disarmament mechanism on the border of Kenya and Ethiopia contributed to the cross-border conflict and enhanced the social-economic development of Turkana County, concluding that the mechanism for cross-border conflict is adequate. However, their implementation was weak due to lacking resources and goodwill. Therefore, the study recommended that Kenya and Ethiopia address the root causes of cross-border conflicts, triggers, and accelerators by promoting effective institutional policies and administrative frameworks for managing natural resources and setting up official access crossing points. Finally, Kenya and Ethiopia pool resources to boost the livelihoods of their border communities.

Nature and causes of conflict among communities bordering in Borabu-Sotik Border Kenya

This study sought to analyse the nature and causes of conflict among communities bordering in Borabu-Sotik border Kenya. Cross-border conflicts have long existed worldwide, with recent ethnic and communal tensions affecting Africa, including Kenya. This study utilised descriptive statistics and a qualitative research design, focusing on churches at the Borabu-Sotik border, such as SDA, PAG, and Catholic, with a target population of 7,738 respondents. In the context of interfaith relations at Borabu and Sotik, churches play a significant role in conflict resolution through mediation and negotiations. Religious leaders actively mediate disputes and promote compromises between conflicting parties. Additionally, the church contributes to nation building by advocating for peace and supporting youth often involved in conflicts. The church collaborates with the government and other agencies to address social issues like land rights and ethnic discrimination, thus maintaining stability and security. The study used purposive and simple random sampling to select a sample size of 392 respondents, comprising 35 church leaders and 357 church members. Proportionate sampling methods were employed to categorize the sample according to churches. Stratified random sampling was usedto select the respondents, who were then given questionnaires. Data collection tools included interview schedules for church leaders, questionnaires for church members, focus group discussions, and a checklist. Descriptive statistics such as percentages, means, and standard deviations were analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS).

New Trends of Digital Justice: The Online Mediation—Between a Challenge and a Reality (The Portuguese Legal Framework)

The Directive 2008/52/EU of the European Parliament and Council of 21 May 2008, regarding certain aspects of mediation in civil and commercial matters, does not seem to have been designed for online mediation since it does not expressly include rules in this regard, though it does not prohibit it either. The Portuguese legislator, through Law 29/2013, of 19 April 2013 regulated mediation in an autonomous and systematic way in Portugal, covering internal and cross-border conflicts, and went beyond the EU requirements prescribed by the 2008 Directive, which only specified regulation to cross-border conflict mediation. Like the EU Directive, the Portuguese law does not explicitly address online mediation, but it neither prohibits nor excludes its application. In this article, we intend to present and conceptualize online mediation within the scope of Online Dispute Resolution (ODR) procedures. We will present the specific features and principles of online mediation, thus enhancing the main challenges and potentialities of its use as an adequate means of resolving conflicts.

The Role of Abamura/Morans in Cross-Border Conflicts among the Maasai and the Kuria of Kenya, 1920-1963

It is a historical fact that most Kenyan communities are haunted by actual or potential ethnic conflicts. Kenya comprises of many ethnic communities that are religiously shaped by their cherished cultures. These are the cultures which influenced the peoples’ behavior and conduct. It is therefore true that most Kenyan communities were directly or indirectly affected by inter-ethnic community crisis. Inter-ethnic conflicts that were so prevalent among the Kenyan communities concerned cultural issues though culture was not uniform in all communities. This study analyzes the contribution of culture in the frequent conflicts between the Maasai and Kuria communities from 1920 to 1963. Conflict theory was employed to examine the conflicts and was reinforced by structural functionalism theory in the analysis. The assumption in this study was that culture was specifically a contributory factor in regional conflicts and therefore needed a local examination. The study relied on secondary and primary data such as those from the existing written sources and from the affected peoples of Kuria and Trans-Mara region. Purposive sampling was used to reach out to the informants. The research was guided by the specific research questions and objectives which included establishing the influence of rites of passage, Moranism/Abamura and religious beliefs on cross-border conflict between the Maasaiand Kuria from 1920 to 1963. This research was confined to cultural issues between 1920 – 1963. Scarce data, hostile respondents, vast land, sparse population and poor means of transport were some of the limitations encountered. The targeted groups of people for interview included the District Commissioners, head teachers of primary and secondary schools, church leaders, chiefs, clan elders, Border Peace Committee members, traditional healers, Morans/Abamura, Agricultural officers and ordinary residents. This research is descriptive and was based at Kegonga Division of Kuria and Masurura Division of Trans-Mara. Data collected was analyzed and the validity of the research examined together with its reliability. The backgrounds of the Kuria and Maasai were also studied to examine the progressive development of cross-border conflict between them since 1920 to 1963 and how culture had been a hindrance to positive adoption of modern lifestyle. Data collected from the field of study was analyzed, discussed, presented and interpreted within the set objectives of the study. The study also examined the aspects of the cultures of both the Maasai and Kuria which were seen to perpetuate cross-border conflict. Such cultural aspects include circumcision, marriage, Moranism/Abamura and traditional religion. Lastly, the summary of the findings, recommendations, suggestions for further research and contribution to literature are presented. The findings of the study revealed that the rites of passage, Moranism/Abamura and religious beliefs contributed to cross-border conflicts between the Maasai and Kuria.

Religious Beliefs and Cross-Border Conflicts among the Kuria and the Maasai of Kenya from 1920

The main aim of this article is to trace the role of religious beliefs and cross-border conflict among the Kuria and the Maasai of Kenya.This is an historical study that relied on secondary and primary data such as those from the existing written sources and from the affected peoples of Kuria and Trans-Mara region. Purposive sampling was used to reach out to the informants. This research is descriptive and was based at Kegonga Division of Kuria and Masurura Division of Trans-Mara. Data collected was analyzed and the validity of the research examined together with its reliability. The backgrounds of the Kuria and Maasai were also studied to examine the progressive development of cross-border conflict between them since 1920 to 1963 and how culture had been a hindrance to positive adoption of modern lifestyle.

Nigeria’s Border Porosity and Implications for National and International Security

The evolution of modern borders can be traced to the partitioning of Africa during the Berlin Conference negotiations from November 15, 1884 to February 26, 1885. The artificial borders so created are accompanied with extreme porosity leading to myriads of transnational and cross-border criminalities which threatens the peace, security and stability of the region as a whole and Nigeria in particular. This study therefore seeks to examine the causes of Nigeria’s border porosity, emerging cross-border related security threats, government and other stake holders efforts at curbing the menace and to interrogate the implications Nigeria’s Border porosity on peacebuilding, national and international security. Talcott Parson’s Theory of Functional Prerequisites served as the framework while the mixed method research design was adopted for the study. A total of eighty (80) respondents were sampled for the study while purposive sampling technique was employed to select participants who could provide valuable insights into the topic. This research has been able to highlight various factors responsible for Nigeria’s porous borders, the emerging cross-border related security threats, various efforts by government and other stakeholders in addressing the menace of border porosity and the various implications for peace, stability and security of the country. While the various efforts of government and other stakeholders are duly acknowledged, it must be stated that a lot more needs to be done to secure Nigeria’s borders. It is evident that addressing Nigeria’s border porosity is crucial for ensuring peace, stability, national and international security and mitigating the various security threats associated with illegal migration, proliferation of fire arms, trafficking (drug and human), transnational crimes, smuggling, banditry and terrorism holistically requires comprehensive strategies that focus on strengthening border control measures, enhance regional cooperation and collaboration, promote information sharing, develop joint strategies to combat transnational crimes, terrorism, cross-border conflicts, addressing root causes of insecurity, promoting development and governance in the region.

Rites of Passage and Cross-Border Conflict among the Maasai and Kuria of Kenya, 1920-1963

This paper analyzes the contribution of the rites of passage in the frequent conflicts between the Maasai and Kuria communities from 1920 to 1963. Conflict theory was employed to examine the conflicts and was reinforced by structural functionalism theory in the analysis. The study relied on secondary and primary data such as those from the existing written sources and from the affected peoples of Kuria and Trans-Mara region. Purposive sampling was used to reach out to the informants.

Moldova on the Brink: Safeguarding Against Russian Aggression

This article explores the key factors that could lead to a potential spillover of the conflict from Ukraine into Moldova. It also proposes strategies for Moldova to mitigate this risk and safeguard its stability against Russian aggression. By utilizing a mixed methods approach that combines qualitative insights from semi-structured interviews and quantitative analysis of institutional indices, migration and demographic data, also defense budget figures, the article provides a comprehensive evaluation to address the research question. The theoretical framework is based on the cross-border conflict theory, specifically employing the concept of securitization to frame Moldova’s response to security challenges. While the article does not predict outcomes, it highlights Moldova’s options to mitigate vulnerabilities and collaboratively enhance stability. Prioritizing the strengthening of the national security framework and proactive diplomatic initiatives emerges as essential.

Multinational Joint Task Force: Lessons for Comprehensive Regional Approaches to Cross-Border Conflict in Africa

Abstract The recent proliferation of cross-border conflicts in Africa has led to the establishment of multiple Ad Hoc Security Initiatives (asi s) on the continent. However, the effectiveness of these initiatives has varied considerably. As such, there is now increased academic and policy interest in the Multinational Joint Task Force (mnjtf), which has seen substantial operational success over the course of its mandate. This paper seeks to contribute to the debate on the strengths and weaknesses of the mnjtf model and the effectiveness of the Force in the Lake Chad region through an exploration of the mnjtf from an internal perspective. The authors of this paper have both worked closely with the mnjtf in recent years and the paper is based upon interviews with current and former mnjtf personnel, staff of the Lake Chad Basin Commission (which oversees the mnjtf) as well as donor and UN partners. In exploring this internal perspective, the article undertakes an in-depth examination of the mnjtf, including the relationship between the headquarters and the sectors, and assesses the impact the mnjtf has had upon the Troop Contributing Countries (tcc s). It identifies areas where the mnjtf has become a regional hub of best practice, challenges that have compromised its effectiveness, and the impact of military diplomacy on the security of the region. Finally, it concludes by drawing lessons from this experience for other conflicts requiring a comprehensive regional and international response.

Conflict in the Contested Borderland: Land-Based Conflict Across the Ethiopia–Sudan Border in Metema Woreda Borderland, Northwestern Ethiopia

The main aim of the study was to investigate the causes of cross-border land–based conflict along the Ethiopia–Sudan border in Metema Woreda borderlands. The study employed a qualitative research approach and thus in-depth interviews, Focus Group Discussions, and observation instruments of data collection were used. The study found out that the internal land administrative defects in Metema and the Ethiopian government land handover claims to the Sudanese investor have been among the reasons behind the conflict. In addition, the abundant availability of illicit firearms transaction in the area has intensified the land conflict. Moreover, the existence of the contested border with no clear demarcation between Ethiopia and Sudan also aggravates the conflict. Consequently, whenever land shortage occurs in Metema and there is a feeling of Ethiopia’s land confiscation by the Sudanese, the Ethiopian borderland farmers are forced to cross the border and farm on the land claimed by the Sudanese. Therefore, the symbolic land that people carry in their mind along with other internal land–related problems was the cause of the conflict. To sum up, the internal land–related problems along with the contested white line (the colonial border which was demarcated when Sudan was under British rule but remains unclear and contested) claims justify the reason for the cross-border conflict in the area.

Sustainable Financing and Strategic Marketing Increase the Performance of Abattoirs in Pastoral Settings

The economy of Kenya's arid and semi-arid lands relies primarily on livestock keeping. In Turkana, livestock farming is depended on by over 60% of the population; a source of food and nutrition, income, and capital for diversified sources of living. Abattoirs are crucial tertiary markets and units of livestock trade capable of linking livestock-producing areas and herders with potential markets. Conversely, operational challenges have grossly hindered Kenyan abattoirs’ functionality, competitiveness, and profitability. The focus of the study was the non-functionality of the Lomidat abattoir in Turkana, established in 2006 by AMREF and Terra Nuova using donor assistance but halted operations in 2013. In order to discover the reasons that contributed to the non-functionality of the Lomidat abattoir, four study objectives were formulated i.e., (i) to establish the historical context of the Lomidat abattoir during its operational period, (ii) to ascertain the political, economic, social, technological, legal, and environmental factors that influenced the operations of the abattoir, (iii) to identify the potential markets for the abattoir and the viability of each, and (iv) to find out the critical focus areas for the abattoir's competitive and comparative advantages. The study uses exploratory and descriptive research designs, a mixed method study approach, and convenience and probability sampling techniques to generate a study sample of 81 out of a sampling frame of 86. The study populations were livestock traders (primary respondents) and government and civil society focal points (secondary respondents) purposively selected where a semi-structured questionnaire was administered to them. The investigation results indicate that many political, economic, social, cultural, legal, and environmental glitches severely impacted the operations of the Lomidat abattoir which include insufficient funding, rampant internal and cross-border conflicts, government legislation and policy, long distances to markets, and high transportation expenses. Strategic management and marketing, extensive market research, crafting of the appropriate business model for the abattoir, assured government and donor funding, the establishment of public-private partnerships, adoption of opportunity cost livestock-based enterprises, and empowerment of Lomidat Cooperative Society are the priority strategies for reviving the abattoir and putting it into use. The study concludes that sufficient financing and strategic marketing are critical in sustaining abattoirs’ operations in pastoral settings.

Nature of Gender-Based Activities Toward Cross-Border Conflict Management Between Kisumu and Nandi Counties, Kenya

Conflict management has a gendered dimension whereby both men and women play an important role through various activities in cross-border conflict management programs. However, the potential of women's activities in influencing cross-border conflict management remains unrecognized. The study sought to discuss the contribution of gender-based activities toward conflict management along the border of Kisumu and Nandi Counties. The Feminist Conflict Resolution Theory guided the study. The study was conducted in Kisumu and Nandi counties; a Descriptive survey research design was utilized during the study. The target population included household heads, government officials and civil society organizations including community-based and faith-based organizations. Both primary and secondary data were used during the study. Primary data was collected through questionnaires, Interviews and Focus Group Discussions. The study had a sample size of 453 respondents selected through simple random, Convenience and purposive sampling. Qualitative data were analyzed by use of thematic analysis and the results presented in a narrative form and through verbatim quotations, while quantitative was analyzed by using Statistical Packages for Social Scientists (SPSS) to obtain both descriptive and the findings were then be presented in form of charts, graphs and Tables. The study found that there were several gender-based activities in the area that were key to social cohesion and conflict management along the borders of the two counties. These activities included micro-finance institutions at the community level, saving and lending groups, cash transfers, youth programmes, religious peace organizations, and intermarriages among other activities. The study concluded that there are a number of gender-based activities in the study area some of which escalated the conflicts while other were helpful in managing the conflicts.

The Problem of the North Crimea Canal as a Cross-Border Conflict on the Dnieper River

The North Crimean Canal is considered as a continuation of the Dnieper River. This makes it possible to analyze its overlap in 2014 as one of the classic problems of transboundary water use associated with partial or complete restriction of flow in the middle or lower reaches of the river. As a similar example, the conflict between Turkey and Syria over the water resources of the Euphrates River is considered. It is shown that such cross-border conflicts are often caused by both economic reasons and arise in connection with a decrease in runoff in some years due to increased aridity of the climate. This article presents game-theoretic models of interaction between the parties and substantiates the need for compensation payments between the countries participating in a cross-border dispute. Based on the results of the analysis carried out in this article, it was concluded that one of the consequences of the possible destruction of the dam of the Kakhovsky reservoir will be the cessation of water supply to the North Crimean Canal. The fact is that in the first section with a length of more than 200 km, water from the reservoir flows into the channel by gravity, so that when the level drops at the water intake point by 16 m, the filling of the channel will stop.

The Balance Between the Public Order Preservation Policy and the Protection of Children's Interests in Cross-Border Surrogate Parentage

The international community is widely divided on the validity of surrogacy, which has led to the phenomenon of cross-border surrogacy conflicts and triggered the application of public order reservation on the issue of cross-border surrogacy and recognition of foreign surrogacy judgments. In the process of applying public order, the judges of various countries are prone to abuse their discretionary power due to the rigidity of the connotation and theory of public order, and the unclear standard of invoking public order, which interferes with family life and is detrimental to the protection of children. This paper argues that in the parent-child relationship of cross-border surrogacy, public order reservation and protection of children's interests are equally important issues, and cross-border surrogacy judgments should strike a reasonable balance between public order reservation and the principle of the best interests of children. Not only it is necessary to enrich the theory of public order reservation and improve the rules of its application, but the principle of the best interests of the child should be implemented to the greatest extent possible to protect the interests of the surrogate child.

Remarks by Carrie Shu Shang

Increasingly, issues are arising regarding transnational access to evidence in electronic formats in dispute resolution proceedings. Currently, there is not a comprehensive solution to cross-border gathering of electronic stored information and regulations in the area remain a patchwork of divergent instruments. Over the past few years, private practitioners and in-house counsel have had to familiarize themselves with various discovery rules, data privacy laws, and data localization laws to ensure that they transfer data in ways that are compliant with strict cross-border data transfer requirements. Further, the current private international law framework seems outdated for the rapidly changing transnational e-evidence discovery needs. This Panel, organized by the ASIL Private International Law Interest Group (PILIG), addressed issues concerning cross-border conflicts of e-evidence in party-managed processes and whether there is a “best practice” for adjudicators and parties to co-develop such a protocol. As the Co-Chair of PILIG, I had the pleasure of moderating the Panel.

Challenges and Opportunities in Gender-Based Activities toward Cross-Border Conflict Management in Kisumu and Nandi Counties, Kenya

Both men and women are significantly affected during conflicts. It is however important to note that the impacts differ from none gender to the next. In the same breath, conflict management efforts made by both men and women do not get the same recognition, with women facing a myriad of challenges in their attempt to be active participants in the process of conflict management. Therefore, gender parity in conflict management activities, just like in other activities within the society is a major concern. In this regard, the study sought to analyse the challenges that emanate from gender-based activities in the process of conflict management in Nandi and along the Nandi and Kisumu counties border. The target population of this study included Household heads, Deputy County Commissioners, senior police officers, the In-charge Rapid Deployment Unit (RDU), Chiefs, National Intelligence Officers, Local CBOs in-charges, Male and Female Members of Local Peace committees, Leaders of Sugarcane Out growers; Leaders of Market Traders, Local Micro-finance Institutions and religious leaders in the along the border of the two counties. The study employed a descriptive research design. The total sample size was 456. Both probability and non-probability sampling techniques were used. Quantitative data was analyzed using SPSS version 23 and presented as percentages and frequencies in charts, graphs and tables while qualitative data was summarized in themes and presented in form of narrative reports and verbatim quotations. The study found that there were a number of factors that prevented women from being actively involved in conflict management among them lack of trust in women, perception, gender roles and level of education of women. The study also found out that there were a number of actors who worked towards gender-based conflict management in the study area, and they included government agencies and religious leaders; civil society as well as the community members. The study further found that the role of actors provided opportunities for human rights protection, Reconciliation, Gender Mainstreaming, Peace Building Workshops, media peace campaigns and peace caravans. The study concluded that women face a number of challenges that obstruct their involvement in conflict management as compared to their male counterparts. It’s however important to note that the involvement of various actors including government agencies, CSOs, religious leaders and community members provides an opportunity for sustainable conflict management through human rights protection and education, gender mainstreaming, reconciliation and peacebuilding activities and forums.

Pastoral Conflict, Emerging Trends and Environmental Stress in Nyangatom, Southern Ethiopia

This study examined the dynamics of conflict, emerging trends and relationship between inter-pastoral conflicts and environmental changes in Nyangatom, Southern Ethiopia. The study employed a qualitative approach and exploratory case study research design. The study revealed that inter-pastoral conflicts stem from multiple and compounding dynamics. The environmental change has escalated intense inter-pastoralists’ contestation and conflicts, including cross-border conflict, on the scarce and fast-depleting natural resources. Indeed, there is a causal link between inter-pastoral conflicts and environmental changes. In this regard, the environmental factor has uniquely affected the Nyangatom due to the drying of Kibish River and rapid invasion of Prosopis–Juliflora in their key grazing lands. In response to environmental stresses as part of the traditional copying mechanism, the Nyangatom cross border deep into South-Sudan to their ethnic kin of Toposa and into Kenya that usually causes frequent cross-border conflicts with Turkana pastoralists. Irrespective of discernible risk of conflicts, they used to migrate to Mursi and Surma territories that caused conflict. And yet, the Nyangatom has often engaged in frequent conflicts with Dasanach. The study suggests alternative livelihood options and an understanding of the complex conflict dynamics in view of the cause-effect relationships for future management of inter-pastoral and cross-border conflicts in the region.

UNDERSTANDING JAPANESE SOFT POWER POLICY AND ITS FEATURE IN CENTRAL ASIA

The states of the Central Asian region obtained their independence in 1991 and have been undergoing a turbulent transition process, such as civil war, cross-border conflicts, revolution and socio-political reforms. Japan has been furthering its cooperation with the Central Asian countries since the day diplomatic relations were established. Despite only a 25-year history of cooperation, Japan has developed numerous and diverse patterns of involvement in the Central Asian region. There is a positive attitude towards Japan and Japanese people among the population of Central Asian countries. This work explores the features of Japanese soft power policy and its development in Central Asia. The core of the multilateral collaboration format in Japanese Central Asian Policy is “Central Asia + Japan,” which aims to promote inter-regional and intra-regional cooperation among the Central Asian states.