Journal of International Relations Security and Economic Studies

Assessment of the Effectiveness of Counter-Terrorism Strategies in Mitigating Terrorism in Garissa County, Kenya

Mbindyo Jedidah Ndinda — 2025-01-09

This research aimed to examine the effectiveness of counter-terrorism strategies in mitigating terrorism among Garissa County residents. The study targeted residents, chiefs, national police officers, and women groups who have been in the Garissa sub-county which is close to Garissa University College where a terror attack occurred in 2015. A sample size of 399 was obtained from 163,914 residents in the Garissa sub-county. The survey utilized random and purposive sampling to select the study participants. Data was collected using questionnaires, scheduled interviews, and focus group discussions. Quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics and presented in means, percentages, and standard deviations. Qualitative data from the interviews and Focus Group Discussions was tape-recorded analyzed qualitatively, and presented in narratives. The study found that counter-terrorism mitigation strategies namely law enforcement, Nyumba-Kumi practices (Ten Households), and community policing work only to a moderate extent. However, the study found that intelligence-led policing is an effective method of curbing terrorism hence counter-terrorism measures can be based upon it. The study proves its value to several stakeholders such as the government, Kenya police, residents, and future researchers, by recommending how to improve counter-terrorism mitigation strategies and consequently reduce terrorist attacks leading to improved quality of life. The study particularly recommends the government focus on intelligence-led community policing, to improve information flow and sharing, create research platforms that check for vulnerability, and commit to improving security-related technology.

Analyzing and Explaining the Geostrategic and Geopolitical Position of Uruguay in Latin America

Mohsen Zamani — 2025-03-03

Uruguay, as one of the smallest countries in Latin America in terms of size and population, holds a unique position in the region's geostrategic and geopolitical dynamics. Its geographical location between two regional powers, Brazil and Argentina, enhances its significance in economic, political, and military matters. Through access to the Atlantic Ocean and its proximity to the Rio de la Plata, Uruguay plays a crucial role in facilitating regional and international trade. This positioning has enabled the country to become a hub for transportation and distribution of export goods from neighboring countries. From a geopolitical perspective, Uruguay, as a small yet strategic actor, has adopted a balanced foreign policy between the major regional powers. This approach has allowed the country to play a key role in strengthening regional cooperation, particularly within frameworks such as Mercosur. However, challenges such as economic and political pressures resulting from dependency on its neighbors and shifts in global policies significantly impact Uruguay's position. On the other hand, from a geostrategic standpoint, Uruguay's relative political and economic stability has made it an attractive destination for foreign investment. This characteristic, combined with transparent economic policies and a strong legal framework, has positioned the country as a successful model among international players. This article uses geopolitical and geostrategic theoretical frameworks to analyze Uruguay's position in Latin America. The findings reveal that despite its geographical and demographic limitations, Uruguay has managed to secure a prominent place in regional and international relations through intelligent policies and its strategic location.