THE IMPACT OF UN RESOLUTIONS, INCLUDING THE RESPONSIBILITY TO PROTECT (R2P), ON AFRICAN SECURITY OPERATIONS AND REGIONAL STABILITY

Publication Date : 17/04/2025

Author(s) :

Bankole Sodipo, Uzuegbu.Wilson Emmanuel, Taiwo Abiodun-Oni.

Volume/Issue :

Volume 5

Issue 1

(04 - 2025)

Abstract :

This paper examines the role of United Nations (UN) resolutions, particularly the Responsibility to Protect (R2P), in shaping African security operations and regional stability. While African regional frameworks like the African Peace and Security Architecture (APSA) and the African Union (AU) have sought to address conflicts, their efficacy is often hampered by political fragmentation, resource constraints, and sovereignty sensitivities. The study argues that UN resolutions, though non-binding, significantly influence African security paradigms by legitimizing interventions and setting normative standards. However, their implementation reveals tensions between global norms and regional realities. The analysis highlights R2P’s contested application in Africa, notably during the 2011 Libyan intervention, which exposed gaps between humanitarian intent and geopolitical misuse. While R2P’s pillars align with the AU’s Article 4(h) mandate, divergent interpretations of sovereignty and inconsistent political will have undermined cohesive action. Case studies, such as the AU-UN collaboration in Mali (MINUSMA), demonstrate the potential for synergy but also underscore challenges like underfunding and mission complexity. Similarly, UN Resolution 1325 on women’s inclusion in peace processes remains inadequately implemented, reflecting systemic limitations of "soft law" in Africa’s resource-constrained environments. This paper concludes that UN resolutions and R2P provide critical frameworks but require contextual adaptation to African dynamics. Strengthening AU-UN institutional partnerships, enhancing local ownership of interventions, and addressing structural inequities in global governance are vital for improving accountability and effectiveness. By prioritizing regional agency and reforming implementation mechanisms, African states and international actors can better align normative aspirations with on-the-ground security needs. Keywords: African Security, African Union, Responsibility to Protect (R2P), Regional Cooperation, UN Resolutions.