With the ending of white minority rule in South Africa, the democratic elections in Mozambique, and the renewed efforts at a negotiated settlement of civil war in Angola, Southern Africa has entered a new era. Much more is required, however, to ensure lasting peace and security. The states on the subcontinent are confronted with the twofold task of creating a sound multilateral framework for conducting mutual relations and of accommodating the dominant power - the new democratic South Africa.

This book examines the potential for - and the obstacles to - regional cooperation and the process of regional institution-building, emphasizing the need to develop a genuine and indigenous capability for managing and resolving conflict. Throughout, contributors explore ideas about common norms, principles, and concrete measures that lend support for building confidence and security.

Finally, the specific experiences in organizing collective security in other parts of the African continent are carefully analyzed.