A leading group of scholars examine the circumstances under which central states might change their shape in responding to ethnic upheavals and regionalist demands. A systematic approach is applied to a country-by-country approach examining in turn most of the key areas of state boundary disputes in the contemporary world.

This book examines the relationship between global and local politics in Africa. As well as feeling the impact of globalization, Africa has been increasingly subject to external interventions - political, economic and military. Comprising chapters by area specialists, political scientists and anthropologists, the book analyzes the forms of power, authority and governance which have emerged as international influences have grown. It will be of interest to students of comparative politics, sociology and international relations, as well as African studies.