Iroanya, Richard ObinnaNamwaapo, Malakia2026-09-292026-09-292025http://hdl.handle.net/11070/4313A thesis submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the Degree of Master of Arts (Security and Strategic Studies)This study was undertaken to examine the concept of collective security as applied in the context of SADC with specific reference to its intervention in Mozambique. These entailed examining collective security mechanisms such as the Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Co-operation (OPDSC), and Mutual Defence Pact (MDP). The study was guided by a Security Community Theory developed in 1957 by Karl Deutsch and his associates in its attempt to explain collective security. The theory aimed at the possibility for states to settle differences and gain peace through common values and interests and focused on the pluralistic security community. This exploratory study employed a qualitative research approach and a case study research design. Data were mainly collected by using a semi-structured open-ended interview guide. Moreover, policy documents, books, journals and online articles were also accessed and evaluated to guide the research plan and in triangulating the research findings. In addition, the study used a purposive sampling technique to select the appropriate participants, and as such, a sample size of 29 participants was used in the study. From data analysis, among others, it was found that the lack of political will among some member states to respond swiftly and decisively to security threats in the region was a challenge. As such, the study recommends that member states must reaffirm their commitment to the principles of collective security and should demonstrate unwavering political will and cohesion to intervene promptly to address security threats effectively. Finally, based on the complexities surrounding collective security in the context of SADC concerning its intervention to address conflict in the region, a further study focusing on investigating the role of external factors, such as international donors in influencing the collective security initiatives of regional organizations are recommendedenCollective securityConflictsInterventionHumanitarian crisisMediationNamibiaUniversity of NamibiaThesis