Formulative Strategy: Why the African Union-led International Mediation in South Sudan Failed to Prevent Atrocity Crimes

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Obinna F Ifediora
Keyword(s):  
Qualitative Data ◽  
South Sudan ◽  
African Union ◽  
Factors Associated ◽  
Peace Processes ◽  
Conflict Mediation ◽  
International Mediation ◽  
Atrocity Crimes ◽  
Mediator Behavior ◽  
Significant Factors

Abstract The puzzle of the African Union mediation is that it enjoys regional effectiveness in leading peace processes and yet often fails to prevent atrocity crimes. While existing studies focus on the lack of capacity to explain failures, I draw on atrocity mediation literature that emphasizes coercive strategies for ripening to explore widely significant factors associated with the AU mediation. I adopt the “framework of mediator behavior” in international mediation studies to analyze AU policies on conflict responses and the mediation in South Sudan. My approach is consistent with the content analysis of qualitative data. I find that the significant factor in the AU mediation is the “patient” policy, like “strategic patience.” The policy reflects formulative strategy of conflict mediation that describes the mediator who controls the process but shifts control of substantive decision-making to the parties. Formulative strategy is technically non-coercive, so the AU embraces it to respect sovereignty. The paradox is that formulative strategy is the AU legitimacy source—which anchors effectiveness—and failure. The AU mediation failed because of strategic choice, not the lack of capabilities. This study contributes to a broader understanding of the AU mediation and challenges mediator behavior assumptions.

scholarly journals Prevalence of suicidal ideation and associated factors among HIV positive perinatal women on follow-up at Gondar town health institutions, Northwest Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study

2021 ◽  
Vol 21 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Leul Belachew Zewdu ◽  
Mebratu Mitiku Reta ◽  
Niguse Yigzaw ◽  
Koku Sisay Tamirat
Keyword(s):  
Suicidal Ideation ◽  
Unplanned Pregnancy ◽  
Cross Sectional Study ◽  
Hiv Positive ◽  
Hiv Status ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Factors Associated ◽  
Gondar Town ◽  
Perinatal Women ◽  
Significant Factors

Abstract Background Suicidal behaviors cover a range or continuum of acts from suicidal ideations to a series of actions, commonly known as suicidal attempts or deliberate self-harms. Though different mental disorders related studies were conducted among HIV/AIDS patients, there is a scarcity of information about the magnitude and determinants of suicidal thoughts among perinatal women. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the prevalence of suicidal ideation and associated factors among HIV positive perinatal women in the study setting. Methods An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted among perinatal women on treatment to the prevention of mother to child transmission of HIV/AIDS at Gondar town health facilities. A total of 422 HIV-positive perinatal women were selected systematically and the data collected through medical record review and interview using a Composite International Diagnostic Interview (CIDI) toolkit. A binary and multivariable logistic regression model was employed to identify factors associated with suicidal ideation. An Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) with 95% Confidence Interval (CI) was computed to see the strength of association between outcome and independent variables. Characteristics having less than 0.05 p-value had been taken as significant factors associated with the outcome of interest. Result The prevalence of suicidal ideation was found to be 8.2% (95% CI; 5.7 to 11.3) and with a standard error of 0.013. Perinatal depression (AOR=4.40, 95%CI: 1.63 11.85), not disclosed HIV status (AOR=3.73, 95%CI: 1.44 9.65), and unplanned pregnancy (AOR=2.75, 95%CI: 1.21 6.21) were significant factors associated with suicidal ideation. Conclusion The magnitude of suicidal ideation among HIV positive perinatal women was found to be low. Perinatal depression, non-disclosed HIV status, and unplanned pregnancy were factors significantly associated with suicidal ideation. This finding suggests the integration of mental health services with maternal and HIV support programs.

scholarly journals Current status of periodontitis and its association with tobacco use amongst adult population of Sunsari district, in Nepal

2021 ◽  
Vol 21 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
K. Goel ◽  
S. Sharma ◽  
D. D. Baral ◽  
S. K. Agrawal
Keyword(s):  
Tobacco Use ◽  
Smokeless Tobacco ◽  
Periodontal Diseases ◽  
Adult Population ◽  
Multivariate Logistic Regression Analysis ◽  
Case Definition ◽  
Current Status ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Factors Associated ◽  
Significant Factors

Abstract Background Tobacco products are considered significant, but preventable factors related to initiation and progression of periodontal diseases. We assessed the prevalence of periodontitis and evaluated its association with tobacco use and other factors amongst the adult population of Sunsari district in eastern Nepal. Methods A community-based, cross-sectional study was conducted in rural municipalities in the province one of eastern Nepal. A total of 440 adults were interviewed with a set of a pre-tested semi-structured questionnaire. Data on social demographics, adverse oral habits followed by periodontal clinical examination were recorded. Prevalence of periodontitis was assessed by a case definition provided by CDC-AAP. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis was done to measure the association between tobacco use and other factors with periodontitis. Results The overall prevalence of periodontitis was found to be 71.6%. Majority (85.4%) of tobacco users had periodontitis and they were significantly associated with the disease and its severity. The study identified age groups, 45–65 years (AOR = 7.58, 95% CI 3.93–14.61), plaque accumulation (AOR = 1.01, 95% CI 1.00–1.02), smoking (AOR = 3.14, 95% CI 1.36–7.27), khaini users (smokeless tobacco, AOR = 2.27, 95% CI 1.12–4.61) and teeth loss (AOR = 2.02, 95% CI 1.21–3.38) as the significant factors associated with periodontitis. Conclusion The prevalence of periodontitis is high in the surveyed rural adult population. Cigarette smoking along with the use of smokeless tobacco in the form of khaini were identified as significant factors associated with periodontitis.

scholarly journals Predicting survival function and identifying associated factors in patients with renal insufficiency in the metropolitan area of Maringá, Paraná State, Brazil

2018 ◽  
Vol 34 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Thiago G. Ramires ◽  
Luiz R. Nakamura ◽  
Ana J. Righetto ◽  
Edwin M. M. Ortega ◽  
Gauss M. Cordeiro
Keyword(s):  
Renal Insufficiency ◽  
Metropolitan Area ◽  
Associated Factors ◽  
Generalized Additive Models ◽  
Survival Function ◽  
National Health System ◽  
Public Health Problem ◽  
Additive Models ◽  
Factors Associated ◽  
Significant Factors

Renal insufficiency is a serious medical and public health problem worldwide. Recently, although many surveys have been developed to identify factors related to the lifetime of patients with renal insufficiency, controversial results from several studies suggest that researches should be conducted by region. Thus, in this study we aim to predict and identify factors associated with the lifetime of patients with chronic renal failure (CRF) in the metropolitan area of Maringá, Paraná State, Brazil, based on the generalized additive models for location, scale and shape (GAMLSS) framework. Data used in this study were collected from the Maringá Kidney Institute and comprehends 177 patients (classified with CRF and mostly being treated under the Brazilian Unified National Health System) enrolled in a hemodialysis program from 1978 up to 2010. By using this approach, we concluded that in other regions, gender, kidney transplant indicator, antibodies to hepatitis B and antibodies to hepatitis C are significant factors that affect the expected lifetime.

scholarly journals The effectiveness of nutrition education for care takers at Al-Sabah children hospital in patient therapeutic feeding center, Juba South Sudan.

2020 ◽  
Vol 5 (3) ◽  
Author(s):  
John Bosco Alumai
Keyword(s):  
Nutrition Education ◽  
Mixed Method ◽  
Qualitative Data ◽  
Group Discussion ◽  
South Sudan ◽  
Transfer Of Knowledge ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Cross Sectional Design ◽  
Feeding Center ◽  
Successful Transfer

 AbstractBackgroundA key part of treating and preventing malnutrition is the provision of effective nutrition education to the clients and caretakers so that they can self-manage their nutrition needs even after discharge from the hospital. For effective nutrition education, three factors are paramount; The successful transfer of knowledge and skills, client motivation to act on the acquired skills and knowledge and ensuring that the patient is able to understand and put to practice the educational messages given.MethodsThe study used cross sectional design with mixed method of data collection that involved 83 caretakers of admitted SAM children at Al-Sabah children hospital ITC, Sample size was determined using Cochran 1975, interviewer administered questionnaires and focus group discussion guide were the tools used in collecting data.Data set was generated using EPI info and analyzed using SPSS version 21, the analyzed descriptive data was triangulated with the qualitative data collected using FGD.Results The majority of the caretakers were female 78 (94%) of which 68 (81.9%) were mothers to the children that were admitted. Only 8 (9.6%) of the respondents were found to have attained effective nutrition education and majority of the respondents were found not to be recalling the information they were given during the education session.ConclusionAs per the guidelines adapted by the ministry of health republic of South Sudan, the nutrition education sessions conducted was found not be effective as most of the clients could not even recall the information given. 

Intracranial hematoma following ruptured anterior communicating artery aneurysms: risk factors, outcome, and prognostic factors after management of coiling first

2021 ◽  
pp. neurintsurg-2021-017506
Author(s):  
Heng Ni ◽  
Lin-Bo Zhao ◽  
Sheng Liu ◽  
Zhen-Yu Jia ◽  
Yue-Zhou Cao ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Risk Factors ◽  
Prognostic Factors ◽  
Neurological Status ◽  
External Ventricular Drainage ◽  
Anterior Communicating Artery ◽  
Intracranial Hematoma ◽  
Factors Associated ◽  
Independent Variable ◽  
Logistic Regressions ◽  
Significant Factors

BackgroundTo determine the risk factors for intracranial hematoma (ICH) development following ruptured anterior communicating artery (AcomA) aneurysms and to determine prognostic factors associated with unfavorable outcomes after coiling first.MethodsFrom March 2014 to February 2020, 235 patients with ruptured AcomA aneurysms underwent endovascular treatment in our department. The clinical and radiographic conditions were collected retrospectively. Modified Rankin Scale (mRS) scores of ≤ 2 were accepted as favorable outcomes. Univariate and multivariate logistic regressions were performed to identify significant factors contributing to the incidence of ICHs and to unfavorable outcomes.ResultsOf these 235 patients, 68 had additional ICHs. A posterior orientation of ruptured AcomA aneurysms was the independent variable associated with the incidence of ICHs (OR 3.675; p<0.001). Furthermore, having preoperative Hunt–Hess grades Ⅳ–Ⅴ was an independent variable associated with unfavorable outcomes for ICH patients (OR 80.000; p<0.001). Among the 68 patients with ICHs, 40% (27/68) had Hunt–Hess grades IV–V. Four percent of patients (3/68) underwent surgical hematoma evacuation after the coiling procedure and 15% of the patients (10/68) underwent external ventricular drainage. A favorable outcome was achieved in 72% (49/68) of patients with ruptured AcomA aneurysms. The mortality rate was 21% (14/68) at 6 months.ConclusionA posterior orientation of ruptured AcomA aneurysms was associated with the incidence of ICHs. Coiling first with surgical management if necessary seems to be an acceptable treatment for ruptured AcomA aneurysms with ICHs. The clinical outcome was associated with the clinical neurological status on admission.

Envoy Envy? Competition in African Mediation Processes and Ways to Overcome It

2021 ◽  
pp. 1-28
Author(s):  
David Lanz
Keyword(s):  
Conflict Resolution ◽  
Division Of Labor ◽  
Driving Forces ◽  
South Sudan ◽  
Negative Effects ◽  
Peace Processes ◽  
Mediation Processes

Abstract This article seeks to make sense of the dynamics of competition in African mediation processes and to outline approaches for effective cooperation between mediators. To this end, it analyzes four cases of recent peace processes: Sudan (1994–2005), Kenya (2008), Madagascar (2009–2013) and South Sudan (2013–2015). The article identifies four driving forces of competition among mediators: clashing interests of states involved in mediation, overlapping mediation mandates, incompatible norms guiding conflict resolution, and mediators’ lack of performance. These factors risk undermining peace processes unless the involved mediators and guarantors take active steps to mitigate the negative effects of competition. This can be done through ‘hierarchical coordination,’ where a recognized authority takes the lead and allocates roles to other actors, or through ‘collaborative cooperation,’ where partners have unity of purpose and decide on a division of labor based on comparative strengths.

Concluding Reflections

2020 ◽  
pp. 320-344
Author(s):  
Alex De Waal
Keyword(s):  
Agenda Setting ◽  
South Sudan ◽  
Peace Agreement ◽  
Strategic Ambiguity ◽  
Peace Processes ◽  
South Sudanese ◽  
Theories Of Change ◽  
Core Issues

This chapter draws upon the contributions to this volume and adds additional reflections on peacemaking in Sudan and South Sudan, to draw out some patterns and general conclusions. It frames the analysis within the theories of change implicit in international and domestic Sudanese approaches to peacemaking. The principal argument is that peace processes should be seen as an extension of politics, characterized by strategic ambiguity, pursuing parallel tracks, and positioning for future opportunities that cannot be identified in advance. By contrast, international peacemakers’ theories of change are structured to achieve a singular unified settlement, or to pursue external interests. Sudanese/South Sudanese civic actors’ strategies go beyond ‘inclusion’ to agenda setting and generating coalitions for change. These differences are illustrated with reference to how the Comprehensive Peace Agreement managed its core issues (economy and security) and its marginal or excluded issues (Abyei, the ‘two areas’ and Darfur).

scholarly journals Factors that influence mothers’ prenatal decision to breastfeed in Spain

2020 ◽  
Vol 15 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Ana Ballesta-Castillejos ◽  
Juan Gómez-Salgado ◽  
Julián Rodríguez-Almagro ◽  
Inmaculada Ortiz-Esquinas ◽  
Antonio Hernández-Martínez
Keyword(s):  
Online Survey ◽  
Maternal Education ◽  
Binary Logistic Regression ◽  
Ethics Committee ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Factors Associated ◽  
Online Study ◽  
Multiple Factors ◽  
Intention To Breastfeed ◽  
Significant Factors

Abstract Background Parents’ decisions about how to feed their newborns are influenced by multiple factors. Our objective was to identify the factors that can influence the decision to breastfeed. Methods Cross-sectional observational online study was conducted in Spain on women who gave birth between 2013 and 2018. The total number of participants was 5671. Data collection was after approval by the ethics committee in 2019. The data were collected retrospectively because the information was obtained from women who were mothers during the years 2013–2018. An online survey was distributed to breastfeeding associations and postpartum groups. Multivariate analysis with binary logistic regression was done to calculate the Adjusted Odds Ratios (aOR). The main result variable was “intention to breastfeed”. Results Ninety-seven percent (n = 5531) of women made the decision to breastfeed prior to giving birth. The internet played a role in deciding to breastfeed in 33.7% (n = 2047) of women, while 20.1% (n = 1110) said the same thing about their midwife. We identified five significant factors associated with the mother’s prenatal decision to breastfeed: attending maternal education (aOR 2.10; 95% CI 1.32, 3.34), having two (aOR 0.52; 95% CI 0.28, 0.99) and three children (aOR 0.24; 95% CI 0.10, 0.59), previous breastfeeding experience (aOR 6.99; 95% CI 3.46, 14.10), support from partner (aOR 1.58; 95% CI 1.09,2.28) and having a condition during pregnancy (aOR 0.62; 95% CI 0.43, 0.91). Conclusions Factors related with previous breastfeeding experience and education for mothers are decisive when it comes to making the decision to breastfeed. Given the proven influence that partners have in decision-making, it is important for them to be fully involved in the process.

Factors Associated With Suicidal Attempt Among School-Going Adolescents in Malaysia

2019 ◽  
Vol 31 (8_suppl) ◽  
pp. 73S-79S
Author(s):  
Fazly Azry Abdul Aziz ◽  
Mohamad Aznuddin Abd Razak ◽  
Noor Ani Ahmad ◽  
S. Maria Awaluddin ◽  
Noor Aliza Lodz ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Confidence Interval ◽  
Multiple Logistic Regression Analysis ◽  
Holistic Approach ◽  
Suicidal Attempt ◽  
Public Health Policies ◽  
Factors Associated ◽  
School Based ◽  
Parental Connectedness ◽  
The Relationship ◽  
Significant Factors

Various factors contribute to suicidal attempt. This study aims to determine the relationship between suicidal attempt and its associated factors among school-going adolescents in Malaysia. Data from the National Health and Morbidity 2017 survey were analyzed. This survey was implemented as a nationwide school-based survey targeting adolescents 13 to 17 years old. Descriptive and multiple logistic regression analysis was done using SPSS version 20. A total of 27 399 adolescents participated in this survey. The prevalence of suicidal attempt was 6.9% (95% confidence interval = 6.2-7.7). Multivariate analysis found that the odds of suicidal attempt among adolescent with depression is 4.3 (adjusted odds ratio = 4.3; 95% confidence interval = 3.9-4.8). Other significant factors are young adolescent, non-Malay ethnicities especially Indian, adolescent with parents living apart, and those without peer support and parental connectedness. A holistic approach for the planning of preventative strategies and public health policies should be made according to these risk factors.

Sign in / Sign up

Export Citation Format

Share Document