Critical Examination of the African Union’s Peacekeeping Mission: A Case of African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM)

The aim of this study is to critically examine the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM). The study offers empirical reflection on the strength of realist theory using AMISOM as a case study. In this paper, the concept of national interest was analyzed through the lens of realist theory as to understand the motives underlying states engagement with AMISOM. Further, the research paper, reveals that national self-interest such as economic interest, political interest, military and security interest all have shaped the motives of states engagement with AMISOM. Thus has greatly jeopardize the long term stability in the country. My objectives, however, transcend beyond simply exploring the motives of states for participation in AMISOM. I also attempt to find out the root causes of Somalia conflict and to examine the challenges confronting AMISOM in their ongoing operation in Somalia. This research paper is divided into five chapter; the first chapter provides the introduction of the subject matter. The second chapter covered the literature review and theoretical framework of peacekeeping mission. It also covers a conceptual understanding of conflict, conflict resolution and peacekeeping. Chapter three provides the root causes of Somalia conflict, the international and regional engagement in Somalia and the roles, mandates and composition of AMISOM. The chapter four analyzes in detail the motives for states interventions in Somalia conflict and how it has jeopardize the potential for long term stability in the country. It also discusses the prospects and challenges confronting AMISOM. Finally, in the fifth chapter, I present conclusion and recommendations derived from the analysis.