Seeds of New Hope: Pan-African Peace Studies for the Twenty-First Century

by Matt Meyer (Editor / Contributor), Rais Neza Boneza (Contributor), Horace Campbell (Contributor)

Seeds of New Pan African Peace Studies for the Twenty-first Century brings together leading academics and activists from four continents, presenting on issues relating to war and peace in Africa. With a focus on areas of positive change and concrete developments in justice-based initiatives, these essays refute the stereotyped view of Africa as a tragic, war-torn region. Thematic, continent-wide overviews are combined with country-specific references, making this volume accessible and insightful for scholars and students alike. Pan African elder Bill Sutherland stated, "At the time of the liberation movements, there was a lot of hope, yet there were also the seeds of the troubles to come. Today, there are a lot of troubles, but in these presentations lie the seeds of new hope." Contributors include Shelley Anderson, Judith Atiri, Rais Neza Boneza, Horace Campbell, Imani Countess, Jacques Depelchin, Silvia Federici, Richard Jackson, Jorgen Johansen, Nunu Kidane, Andrew Murray, Bernedette Muthien, Laurie Nathan, Chesterfield Samba, and Yash Tandon. Seeds of New Hope brings together a new generation of scholars and activists, working to build what Africa's founding fathers and mothers hoped to bequest. Those seeking a true peace must study and reflect upon these important contributions, and redouble our efforts for justice and for a true African humanism. Kenneth D. Kaunda, from the foreword A very much needed book, bringing Africa to peace studies and peace studies to Africa, hopefully for the benefit of both. The authors dig into the immense complexity of Africa; a major reason why peace researchers have stayed away. Africa offers no simple bipolarity like the Cold War in Europe or the US Empire in Latin America. On the other hand, one often forgotten polarity is given ample treatment in the gender. Congratulations to the authors and to the editors! Johan Galtung, Director of TRANSCEND; pioneer of the field of peace research

Genres: Africa

388 pages, Paperback

First published September 24, 2008

About the author

Matt Meyer is a New York City–based educator, organizer, and author who serves as War Resisters International Africa Support Network Coordinator, and who represents the International Peace Research Association at the United Nations Economic and Social Council. A former draft registration resister, Meyer’s extensive human rights work has included support for all political prisoners and prisoners of conscience, solidarity with Puerto Rico and the Black Liberation Movement, and board membership on the A.J. Muste Memorial Institute.