The Foreign Service Journal, May 2004

• Do not advocate federalism as an all-purpose solu- tion. Federalism may eliminate the demand for partition in some cases, but this will only happen if the compo- nent units of the federal system reflect political reality. In the big, troubled African states, federalism will pre- dominantly be based on ethnicity and/or religion. The role of the international community is not to dictate the boundaries of the component units, but to help the par- ticipants reach the needed compromises. • Do not push democracy as a panacea. Though a good thing in itself, democracy is not a solution to the problems of big, dysfunctional African states. A demo- cratic process can only take place when there is a func- tioning state. State-building should come first. • Develop a model for international peacekeeping in large states. That such countries cannot be saturat- ed with foreign military personnel does not mean that intervention should be purely symbolic, as has often been the case. Peace support operations should use decisive military force where necessary, but above all they must find a balance between rebuilding local armies, providing local security by invigorating police forces, and offering sound, impartial civilian adminis- tration. • Do not burden the big African states with peace- keeping in smaller countries. With the exception of South Africa, big states are too dysfunctional to be encouraged to deal with conflicts in their regions. Even South Africa cannot carry too large a burden in this regard. Delegating peacekeeping in West Africa to Nigeria may look like a good way to avoid a major com- mitment by the United Nations or the major powers, but Nigeria and other big African states will become a force for stability and peace in their regions only if they find ways to manage their considerable political and economic problems. They must be encouraged to focus on their domestic problems first. • Accept the fact that in 20 years the map of Africa is unlikely to look like that of today, let alone that of 40 years ago. F O C U S 34 F O R E I G N S E R V I C E J O U R N A L / M A Y 2 0 0 4 Home Suite Home The next time you’re going to be in DC for an extended stay, make yourself at home at Georgetown Suites. With our discounted monthly rates and large, comfortable suites, you’ll feel right at home. Plus we’re near the State Department. Call today! Georgetown Suites the fun place to stay in DC 1-800-348-7203 www.georgetownsuites.com sales@georgetownsuites.com