An analysis of the impact of novel coronavirus pandemic on collective security in the SADC region
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Date
2023
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Publisher
University of Namibia
Abstract
The purpose of the study was to analyze the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Collective Security in the SADC Region. The study adopted a qualitative research design. Moreover, the total sample for the study was 20 participants from the Namibian Defence Force, Ministry of Intentional Relations and Co-operation, Namibian Police and Namibia Correctional Services as well as scholars in the field of International Relations. Furthermore, the participants were sampled through purposive sampling and the study used semi-structured open-ended interviews. The research findings revealed that, the COVID -19 pandemic has greatly affected Collective Security in the SADC Region. The Collective Security Mechanisms affected by the COVID-19 pandemic is the SADC Standby Force rapid deployment capabilities. During the pandemic, the SADC Strategic Development Plan meetings such as Strategic Indicative Plan of the Organ (SIPO) on Defence, Politics and Security were put on hold, therefore escalating the insecurity in the SADC Region. Moreover, under such circumstances the SADC member states were unable to create a stable political and security environment through which the region is able to realize its objectives of social economic development and Regional Integration. Furthermore, Collective Security was further impacted in terms of personnel; hence, some lost their loved once from the pandemic, which therefore dampen morale for the military and health experts. In the final analysis, the study recommended, vaccination to be mandatory to all Security and health personnel to boost their immune system given the fact that they are the first line or front line workers, which increases the risks of infections. The researcher also recommends for further research on measures to prevent extremist in the SADC Region.
Description
A mini thesis submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the Degree of Master of Arts in Security and Strategic studies in the School of Military science
Keywords
Covid-19, Collective Security, Namibian Defence Force, SADC