Within the field of conflict resolution and peacebuilding, there exists a question of how present the international community ought to be in negotiations. In a recent analysis from the Council on Foreign Relations, author Stephanie Hanson summarizes a number of approaches currently being taken on the African continent and implies that most “homegrown” peace agreements are unsuccessful. She suggests that African countries are “hunting for an elusive peace” and that without international initiatives, it is unlikely that conflicts will be resolved. It may be true that recent attempts at peace negotiations have been less successful in the absence of international actors, but international efforts themselves are not without their flaws. Perhaps we need to begin to consider a new methodology when examining peace deals in Africa.

The 2008 Presidential Campaign heated up even before the warm summer of 2007.  There is much talk about money these days and who is leading whom in that category.  Presidential Forums are all the rage and have allowed the candidates to expound on faith, poverty and race.  At AFJN, we are interested in hearing what a future president may have in mind concerning Africa policy. 

As mentioned in an earlier article, AFJN joined a group of other Africa-focused agencies to produce a questionnaire on Africa policy for the candidates.  The questionnaire is ready and has been sent to candidates of both parties, requesting responses for August 1st.  At that time, we will study their responses and issue a press release with our assessment.  We will not, however, endorse a candidate.  In October, all candidates registered with the Federal Election Commission will be invited to a Presidential Town Hall meeting on Africa here in Washington.  Click here to find the questions and more about the Town Hall.

Rev. Rocco Puopolo, Executive Director of AFJN, has signed on to a letter to the Executive Directors of the World Bank and the IMF, calling on them to reform the selection procedures for leadership at both institutions.  The recent revelations about Paul Wolfowitz have shed light on a process that is outdated and unsuited to a global institution.  The present crisis at the World Bank is bringing harm to the institution in the eyes of many of its own employees, evidenced by the number of their signatures on the letter and by recent actions and statements by many present and past employees. 

AFJN has long been critical of the role of the World Bank and particularly concerning the debt crisis and structural adjustment programs.  To restore credibility to the World Bank, the letter proposes two things: "transparency of process, and competence of prospective leadership without regard to national origin."  To read the entire text of the letter and to see the other signatories, please click here .