Cultural Considerations for Security Cooperation Operations in South Sudan: Understanding the Sudan People's Liberation Army (SPLA)
Abstract
The purpose of this study is to identify cultural considerations that impact security cooperation operations with South Sudan, particularly the Sudan People's Liberation Army. Given the complex operational environment of South Sudan, U.S.' war-fighters must conduct an in-depth cultural analysis, beyond a cursory overview, that takes into account not only the demographics of the organization but also the historical events that have influenced it as well as how it is influenced by the environment in which it exists in order to prepare to conduct effective security cooperation operations in South Sudan. The author addresses the significance of South Sudan to U.S. interests and potential military operations in the country. The author then conducts a cultural analysis using the T.R.l.P.L.E. framework as taught in USMC Command & Staff College. The most challenging issues identified through the cultural analysis were militia integration, reducing inter-tribal conflict, and minimizing negative identity factors that are rooted in the history of the SPLA such as "Dinka domination" and human rights violations. The author concludes the study with recommendations for improving cultural understanding for the full spectrum of military operations,
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 2012
- Accession Number
- ADA601549
Entities
People
- Barian A. Woodward
Organizations
- Marine Corps University