POLICY TRANSFER: INTERNATIONALIZATION OF SECURITY POLICY IN AFRICA (CASE OF KENYA)
Abstract
Purpose of the study: This article aimed to explore the role of policy transfer in addressing security issues in African countries, particularly in the context of increasing regionalization and globalization.
Statement of the problem: The problem addressed in this study is the increasing importance of understanding policy transfers role in curbing security issues in African countries amid growing regionalization and globalization. It is crucial for donors, program implementers, and scholars to navigate potential efficiencies and avoid pitfalls associated with policy transfer in addressing security challenges.
Research methodology: The essay employed the PRISMA technique and utilized an inductive research methodology with qualitative methods, including purposive sampling, telephone interviews, and observations. Thematic analysis was chosen for data analysis, allowing for proper evaluation, flexibility, and validation of findings, with themes such as external and domestic security environments, state and non-state actors, and socio-economic factors.
Findings: Policy transfer is influenced by various factors, including domestic prerequisites, the nature of the transfer, and the relationship between the importer and exporter. Policy networks, such as political institutions, civil servants, and NGOs, play a crucial role in facilitating policy transfer. Globalization has led to challenges such as radicalization, religious extremism, and socio-economic disparities, which impact the implementation of policy transfer in Kenya. The instability of neighboring countries and youth unemployment exacerbate these issues, making it essential for Kenya to carefully consider policy transfers in order to address security threats and other challenges effectively.
Recommendations: To improve policy transfer, the following recommendations are suggested: promote interactions between officials from different countries; acknowledge the role of policy networks in information sharing; consider domestic factors and variables for successful policy transfer; carefully assess the nature of transfer, motivations, and relationships between countries. It is important to avoid hasty policy transfers and evaluate policies for contextual relevance. Kenyan governments need to stress the significance of evidence-based security policy transfer and the necessity of the security sector as a logical learning institution It important to address radicalization and religious extremism and improve socio-economic conditions to enhance policy transfer effectiveness. The youth unemployment in Kenya should be tackled to reduce vulnerability to radicalization and terrorism.
Keywords: Security; Policy transfer, Africa
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