ABSTRACT
This chapter argues that South Sudan is a “coward state” in its relations with Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD). It explores and explains the concept of the “coward state” and advances neoliberal peace theory in analysing the relations of South Sudan with IGAD. The chapter examines the friendly and unfriendly relations between IGAD and South Sudan. Liberal peacebuilding associates state security and peace with democratic development and institutions, the rule of law, human rights, and a market economy, which are usually undertaken or established by international organisations or actors, mainly the United Nations and/or others. The Intergovernmental Authority on Drought and Desertification was established in 1986, with a focus on drought and desertification; and relaunched in 1996 as IGAD, with an expanded mandate that included conflict resolution. As violence intensified in South Sudan, Museveni sent troops to support Kiir. Ethiopia is an important player in regional politics, has military power, and can be a stabilising and potentially destabilising factor.
