Tag Archives: Europe

PhD Opportunity: The Cold War in Global Perspectives

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The Department of History invites applications for a PhD in History focused on exploring the Cold War in global perspectives. Particular themes could include post-colonial security issues, such as defence and/or military assistance relations between the superpowers, the former metropoles or other West European countries and African states, conflicts, human rights or peace keeping. We would particularly welcome applications which avoid a Eurocentric perspective.

The Department of History has a strong and growing reputation for research in this field with three new appointments complementing the thematic expertise of existing staff. The department is launching a new MA in Military and International History in 2019 and are thus growing research communities in this field. You are also likely to benefit from a variety of Cold War-related projects in the department, as well as staff roles on international academic bodies and Marco Wyss’s editorial roles including the International Journal of Military History and Historiography, and the book series ‘New Perspectives on the Cold War’ (Brill).

Please contact Dr Marco Wyss (m.wyss@lancaster.ac.uk) to discuss your interest in this fully funded PhD.

www.lancaster.ac.uk/history/PhD

Explainer: the role of foreign military forces in Niger

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Niger is one of the most militarised countries in Africa. In November 2017, this came to wider notice when four American Special Forces soldiers and at least four of their Nigerien counterparts died in an ambush. Since then, the military presence has only intensified. Why are these forces there, whose interests are they serving and are they having the impact that was intended?

The US is not the only nation with a military presence in Niger. France, Germany, Canadaand Italy also have troops in the West African country.

In April this year, Niger hosted Exercise Flintlock, a military exercise that brought together 1900 troops from more than 20 partner countries. Sponsored by the US, it purported to develop capacity and collaboration among African security forces to protect civilians against violent religious extremism.

Three main reasons are given for this military presence: countering terrorism, preventing migration of Africans to Europe, and protecting foreign investments.

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Originally published on The Conversation