East African Community (EAC) and Promotion of Peace and Security Among Partner States: A Case Study of Burundi Crisis (2015-2018)

Abstract

This study examined the function of the East African Community (EAC) in fostering peace and security among its member states. The East African Community (EAC) served as a case study for the research. Among the specific goals include determining the reasons behind Burundi's violence and insecurity, establishing the EAC's conflict resolution tactics, and identifying any shortcomings in the EAC Protocol's institutional framework. The Regional Security Complex Theory (RSCT) served as the foundation for this investigation. This study used both qualitative and quantitative methodologies as part of a mixed-methods research approach. Policymakers and technical specialists in the areas of international relations, peace and security, and regional integration from the EAC Secretariat and Partner States were the target population. Experts from the Community's development partners and other cooperating organizations were also targeted, along with ambassadors and high commissioners with their headquarters located in Nairobi. To find the respondents, the study used both probability and non-probability sampling techniques. A total sample size of 136 respondents was selected using the stratified sampling procedure. The study used homogenous purposive sampling for nonprobability sampling, selecting five respondents from the homogeneous study group. On the secondary data sources, the study used desk research to review existing scholarly materials and publications including journals, books, and online sources. The study relied on content analysis to examine the qualitative aspects of the gathered data. Descriptive statistics was used to complement qualitative findings by providing quantitative evidence to substantiate and contextualize qualitative observations. The findings from quantitative data analysis were presented through tables and graphs whereas qualitative findings were presented thematically in narrative form.