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In Chad, as in other African nations, European soldiers experienced some violent fights. The most recent military mission in the central African desert state has kindled some questions, in particularly treated in the present article the double-role played by France. Central focus of the article is the EUFOR Chad/Central African Republic mission, deployed in Eastern Chad and in the North East of CAR, to tackle the crisis in Darfur. In particular, speculations have risen regarding the form and dimension of French intervention at the siege of president Debys presidential residence by rebel troops. It is undisputed that France already moved a part of troops stationed in Gabon (two paratroop battalions with tanks) before the siege occurred, and that they helped the Chad president (who had studied in France) to procure ammunition for Soviet T-55 tanks. The French role is discussed in a context of the French governmental effort to act discretely and legally, while on the other hand important interests were at stake. It is stated that the French government sought to bring President Deby in a delicate position between exile - and thus prosecution before an international court of justice -- and entwined in French power relations. At the same time it is undisputed that the French armed forces supplied the Chad governmental troops with valuable reconnaissance results. O. van Zijl

After the US-supported Ethiopian intervention, Somalia's neighbors as well as the USA and the UN are striving to end the country's civil war. The present article states, that a stable government is required that brings together all national and regional participants. A new peace initiative, the Djibouti-Agreement, considers this diversion of power and establishes some applicable impulses. The article is based on the author's personal opinion, an expert of the region discussing: the requirements for a stable government; the integration of the Muslim society; the failure of former peace interventions; the American-Ethiopian alliance; accepting local structures as fundamental requirement; and the international community. Adapted from the source document.

The European Union's attempts to present a common Africa Policy have resulted in a number of loosely connected initiatives, among them the two first autonomous crisis management operations outside Europe, the operations Artemis & EUFOR RD Congo. While providing an opportunity for healing political differences between the EU member states short-term measures & military operations provide no long-term solution for African problems. Addressing the root causes of conflict & instability in Africa remains a challenge. There is much room for better coordination of EU policies with bilateral initiatives of EU member states. Putting national interests in second place & a better coordination with international organizations, the UN in particular, are essential. Adapted from the source document.