Strategic Analysis

Ethnic Diversity, Autonomy, and Territoriality in Northeast India: A Case of Tribal Autonomy in Assam

Despite the creation of several new states and territorially defined autonomous councils, different tribes in Northeast India continue to demand the creation of new states and autonomous councils. This is because most tribes in the region are under the impression that an adequate share of political power is a necessary condition for retaining their socio-cultural identities and development. Such cultural and developmental aspirations, though legitimate, face rough weather once they become connected with exclusive administrative boundaries for self-governance.

In Search of Peace in Manipur: Lessons from Nagaland

Manipur has witnessed a rise in insurgency-related violence in recent years. Ordinary people are caught in the crossfire between different ethnic insurgent groups and the security forces. This paper examines the ceasefire in neighbouring Nagaland and argues that a similar ceasefire with better monitoring and enforcement could usher in relative peace in Manipur. Since the agreement on suspension of operations with Kuki insurgents is already in force and there is relative calm in Naga areas, an offer of a ceasefire to all groups is likely to bring down violence

Frameworks for Peace in Northern Ireland: Analysis of the 1998 Belfast Agreement

The 1998 Belfast Agreement brought to an end over three decades of armed conflict in Northern Ireland. This paper summarizes the role of actors within and outside Northern Ireland, and the processes and mechanics of the Agreement itself. The Agreement is placed in the context of previous unsuccessful peace initiatives in the region, and elements within the political and economic environment at the time that facilitated agreement are identified. The consociational nature of the Agreement is set alongside concern about continuing sectarian division.