Analyses the complexities of Christian-Muslim conflict that threatens the fragile democracy of Nigeria, and the implications for global peace and security.

Between 2012 and 2013, Mali has gone through the most challenging period of its history as a nation-state. From a praised democracy, the country almost collapsed after the onset of a complex set of rebellions that threatened to divide or completely erase it from the map. This book provides a three-dimensional analysis of the conflict drivers as well a deep assessment of the conflict resolution mechanisms that were set up to restore Mali control over its territory. From the outbreak of MNLA insurgent attacks in early 2012, the crafting of AZAWAD,the fluidity of MNLA alliance with ANSAR DINE, MUJAO and AQIM, the coup d'état of Sanogo and downfall of Amani Toumani Touré, the responses of ECOWAS, the 'core countries' (Algeria, Mauritania), the African Union, the role of France to the re-hatting of AFISMA and launch of MINUSMA, all crusty details and facets of the crisis are meticulously scrutinized. This book is a must-have for academics, diplomats and strategists interested the new conflict dynamics in Mali and West Africa in a global era.

This analysis of 'globalised' standard-setting processes draws together insights from law, political sciences, sociology and social anthropology to assess the authority and accountability of non-state actors and the legitimacy and effectiveness of the processes. The essays offer new understandings of current governance problems, including environmental and financial standards, rules for military contractors and complex public-private partnerships, such as those intended to protect critical information infrastructure. The contributions also evaluate multi-stakeholder initiatives (such as the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative), and discuss the constitution of public norms in stateless areas. A synopsis of the latest results of the World Governance Indicator, arguably one of the most important surveys in the area today, is included.