Africa’s notorious civil wars and seemingly endless conflicts constitute one of the most intractable threats to global peace and security in the post-Cold War era. This book provides both a superb analysis of the historical dysfunction of the post-colonial African state generally and, more specifically, a probing critique of the crisis that resulted in the tragic collapse of Liberia.

Using a historical deconstruction and reconstruction of the theories and practice of international law and politics, Ikechi Mgbeoji ultimately shows that blame for this endless cycle of violence must be laid at the feet of both the Western powers and African states themselves. He further posits that three measures – a reconstructed regime of African statehood, legitimate governance, and reform of the United Nations Security Council – are imperatives for the creation of a stable African polity. In the post-9/11 era, this holistic and multilateral approach to collective security remains the world's best route to peace and socio-political stability.

Collective Insecurity is a vital addition to the study of international law and will be of interest to students and practitioners of international law and international relations, and those with an interest in security studies, politics, and African studies.