Somalia in Transition Since 2006

This book picks up where its predecessor, Somalia between Jihad and Restoration, left off, examining international efforts to stabilize war-torn Somalia. It analyzes major political events in Somalia in the years since 2006, examining opportunities for restoration of the country based on the United Nations-backed plan known as the "Roadmap for the End of the Transition," improved security conditions, and international economics and financial support. The author notes that the time of transition may be over, according to the timetable of the United Nations, but it is clear that the work of transformation is just beginning. In considering whether political and social chaos in Somalia is ending, Shay sees two possible futures. One possibility is the establishment of a reform government that unifies Somali society; another is continued strife that accelerates Somalia's descent into the endless violence of a failed state. Shay believes the international approach to Somalia requires a thorough reassessment. He argues it has been limited to two Western priorities-terrorism and piracy-while largely ignoring domestic issues of critical concern to Somalis. As a result, many Somalis have come to view those participating in the international effort as a foreign occupation.

Abbreviations Introduction 1 Somalia: Historical Review 2 Islam in Somalia 3 The Islamic Courts Union in Somalia 4 Peacekeeping Mission in Somalia 5 Al-Shabaab al-Mujahideen of Somalia 6 The Battle of Mogadishu 7 Operation Linda Nchi: The Incursion of Kenyan Armed Forces into Somalia 8 International Involvement in Somalia 9 The Democratization and Peace Process in Somalia 10 Intercultural Conflicts, Failing States, and al-Qaeda: Reciprocal Links Summary and Conclusions Index