Africa Center for Strategic Studies

Chad: Escaping from the Oil Trap. By International Crisis Group, 2009. [PDF] This ICG report explores why the discovery of oil has led to growing authoritarianism in Chad instead of improving the lives of its citizens. The report looks at the backlash to the World Bank’s sanctions in response to the Chadian government’s backtracking on the agreed framework, which included the Committee of Control and Supervision of Oil Revenues (CCSRP in French). The report recommends both a domestic and international response to the oil problem in Chad. This includes transparency, strengthening of internal control mechanisms, providing technical support to civil society and pressure from France, the US and China to encourage national dialogue.

Chad: Powder Keg in the East. By International Crisis Group, 2009. [PDF] This ICG reports discusses how the Chadian government has exploited ethnic rivalries in the eastern part of the country to its political advantage through continuous support of internal violence, thus worsening the humanitarian crisis. This strategy has led to civil disobedience, lack of trust of government and undermined national unity. The situation has compelled locals to seek protection from their clans. The report recommends a regional conference to address the issues in eastern Chad and to reinforce the presence of MINURCAT in the region in order to provide increased security.

Towards Resolving Chad’s Interlocking Conflicts. By Sarah Bessell and Kelly Campbell. USIP, 2008. [PDF] According to this USIP report, the difficulty in resolving the Chadian conflict is partly due to the fact that it has always been viewed through the lens of the situation in Darfur. This approach has contributed to difficulties in finding a negotiated settlement. The Sudanese government’s continuous support for Chadian renegade groups with no political agenda exacerbates the already tense relations between the two governments and has contributed to the deplorable humanitarian and security situation. In addressing these concerns, the authors recommend a multifaceted approach, which includes coordination of in-country security activities among the UN, EUFOR and MINUCART. A pledge by both governments to end hostilities and material support for rebel groups should also be enforced.

Mission Incomplete: Why Civilians Remain at Risk in Eastern Chad. By OXFAM International, 2009. [PDF] This report looks at the deteriorating humanitarian crisis in the eastern region of Chad, and the lack of a clear mandate for the various external security forces (UN, EUFOR and MINUCART). According to the report, this challenge has adversely affected the security of the internally displaced persons (IDP) and international aid workers in the camps. The report calls on the UN to give the security forces the mandate to enforce peace, as well as encourage the government to provide needed security for its citizens.