The Role of Peace Diplomacy in Enhancing Interstate Relations: a Case Study of Kenya-south Sudan Relations.

Abstract

This research is a research study approach which focuses on the role of peace diplomacy in enhancing interstate relations between Kenya and South Sudan. The government of Kenya has been one of the key security allies and peace negotiators in S. Sudan since they attained independence in 2011 and before. This study was aimed at examining the trend of peace diplomacy in addressing interstate conflict in the horn of Africa region by analyzing the United Nation’s role in enhancing peace; the impact of authoritarian regimes in interstate conflicts situations; and the contribution of the international regimes in the enhancement of peace diplomacy in S. Sudan and the whole region. It also analyzed the approaches used by the Kenyan government to enhance peace in South Sudan. Article 33 of the UN Charter was used as a guideline to analyze the approaches that many states use in peace restoration efforts worldwide. In addition, the influence of economic security on peace diplomacy between Kenya and S. Sudan was analyzed. The research employed the census calculation method to calculate the number of samples since the sample size was less than 200. The method used to select the samples was the simple random sampling, whereas pre-focused discussions, interview guide, and census methodological approach were used to collect data while utilizing the content analysis to analyze the resulting qualitative data. The study established that most states in the horn of Africa region have military options instead of peace diplomacy in conflict resolution. The Kenya-South Sudan case is no different. The study also found out that Kenya and S. Sudan have embraced western liberal tendencies that have not promoted peace. Peace education and cultural exchange should be emphasized in foreign policy and diplomacy matters. Economic security should be embraced as a significant contributor to peace diplomacy between Kenya and South Sudan.