Law and Anarchy in Somalia

This article will provide an overview of the significant legal issues and policy decisions unique to Operation Restore Hope. The first step will be a discussion of the underlying legal principles applicable both from a national and international perspective. Thereafter, the article looks at rules of engagement, a key element in the operation; guidance on the use of force, both deadly and non-lethal; women and children as combatants; and UNITAF weapons control policy, one of the most difficult issues faced in Somalia. The last topics examined are the problems faced by the UNITAF staff during the transition to United Nations operations. Operation Restore Hope was a success. It will not be remembered for the number of weapons confiscated or the amount of food delivered. Success was properly measured by the improved security for the Somali people at the time of transition, 4 May 1993. The challenges facing UNOSOM II in Somalia are much more formidable than those faced by UNITAF. UNOSOM II has assumed responsibility for disarmament and nation-building tasks that were outside the scope of the UNITAF mission. The challenge for UNOSOM II is to accomplish the expanded mission without becoming embroiled in the factional fighting to the point of backing one faction against the others. Whether the United Nations will succeed can best be expressed by a phrase common in the Moslem world: En Sh' Allah, -- If it is willed by God

Economics · Law and economics · Political economy · Political science · Global Peace and Security Dynamics · International Law and Human Rights · Law · Politics and Conflicts in Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Middle East

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