Non State Actors and International Conflicts: A Study of ISIS and Boko Haram

Abstract

This paper examined the role of non-state actors in international terrorism with special emphasis on ISIS and Boko Haram as cases under review.  The paper examined the complex and evolving roles of non-state actors, specifically ISIS and Boko Haram, in international conflicts. It delves into issues surrounding recruitment, radicalization, transnational impact, and responses by states and international community. By investigating these aspects, the study aims to contribute to a deeper understanding of the challenges posed by these groups and inform more effective counterterrorism strategies and policies. The research questions that guided this study are, how do non-state actors contribute to local and international conflict, and what are the implications for global security? The research objective was to analyze the strategies employed by these two groups to achieve their objectives and to evaluate the effectiveness of the measures adopted by the international community to combat their activities. The theoretical framework adopted in this study is the Terrorism and Insurgency theory seeks to explain and understand the use of violence and intimidation by non-state actors to achieve political, ideological or social objectives, with its use of armed struggle against government or occupying force, often involving guerrilla warfare and popular support, with the aim of achieving political change, and sometime independence. The findings of this study revealed that non-state actors like ISIS and Boko Haram pose a significant threat to global security, as they are able to carry out attacks on a global scale and destabilize entire regions. In the light of these findings, this study proposes several recommendations for addressing the threat posed by non-state actors. These include improving intelligence sharing and coordination among states, strengthening legal frameworks to prosecute individuals and groups engaged in terrorism, and addressing the root causes of conflict, including poverty, political instability, and social marginalization. Only by adopting a comprehensive and coordinated approach can the international community effectively combat the threat posed by non-state actors and promote global peace and security.