Resistance as a Duty: Examining the Role of Defiance in Addressing Systemic Injustice in Cameroon’s Anglophone Crisis

Resistance as a Duty: Examining the Role of Defiance in Addressing Systemic Injustice in Cameroon’s Anglophone Crisis.

Calistus ABANG

PhD, Political Science (International Relations), University of Yaounde II Soa, Cameroon.

PhD in Development Studies (International Development and Diplomacy), Africa Research University, Lusaka Zambia

DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.47772/IJRISS.2025.90300323

Received: 07 March 2025; Accepted: 19 March 2025; Published: 18 April 2025

ABSTRACT

Cameroon’s Anglophone crisis has precipitated a protracted conflict, characterized by systemic injustice, marginalization, and violence, resulting in significant human suffering, displacement, and loss of life. This study examines the role of resistance in addressing these injustices, with a focus on the Anglophone community’s defiance against the government. Drawing on Honorable Wirba’s assertion that “when injustice becomes law, resistance becomes a duty,” this research investigates the complex dynamics of resistance, its manifestations, and its impact on the crisis.Through a qualitative case study approach, this study reveals the intricate relationships between resistance, injustice, and conflict, highlighting the agency and resilience of the Anglophone community. The research explores the various forms of resistance employed by the Anglophone community, including protests, boycotts, and armed conflict, and assesses their effectiveness in addressing systemic injustice.The study also examines the government’s response to resistance, including repression, coercion, and concession, and evaluates the impact of international intervention on the crisis. The findings contribute to a nuanced understanding of resistance as a vital response to systemic injustice, underscoring its significance in shaping the trajectory of the Anglophone crisis.Ultimately, this research aims to provide insights into the complex dynamics of resistance and injustice, informing policy and practice aimed at resolving the Anglophone crisis and promoting sustainable peace and development in Cameroon.

Keywords: Resistance, Systemic injustice, Anglophone crisis, Marginalization, Defiance, Human rights

INTRODUCTION

The Anglophone crisis in Cameroon has escalated into a full-blown conflict, characterized by systemic injustice, marginalization, and violence (International Crisis Group, 2020). The crisis, which began in 2016, has resulted in significant human suffering, displacement, and loss of life (Human Rights Watch, 2020). At the heart of the conflict is a longstanding sense of marginalization and exclusion among the Anglophone minority, who have historically been denied equal access to education, employment, and political representation (Konings & Nyamnjoh, 2003).

The historical and colonial context of the Anglophone crisis is crucial to understanding the current conflict (Awasom, 2011). Cameroon’s colonial past, which was marked by the division of the country between British and French colonial powers, has had a lasting impact on the country’s linguistic, cultural, and educational systems (Kofele-Kale, 1986). The legacy of colonialism has perpetuated systemic injustice and marginalization, with the Anglophone community facing significant barriers to accessing education, employment, and political representation (Nyamnjoh, 2011).

Existing research on the Anglophone crisis has highlighted the complex and multifaceted nature of the conflict (International Crisis Group, 2020; Human Rights Watch, 2020). Studies have examined the role of language, education, and economic policies in perpetuating systemic injustice and marginalization (Konings & Nyamnjoh, 2003; Nyamnjoh, 2011). However, there is a need for further research on the role of resistance and defiance in addressing systemic injustice and promoting social change.

In this context, a Cameroonian politician’s use of the quote “When Injustice Becomes Law, Resistance Becomes Duty” to justify the Anglophone crisis raises important questions about the nature of resistance, injustice, and power dynamics in Cameroon (Jefferson, 1776). This quote, often attributed to Thomas Jefferson, suggests that resistance is not only a moral imperative but also a necessary response to systemic injustice (Arendt, 1969; King, 1963).

The concept of resistance is complex and multifaceted, encompassing a range of actions and strategies employed by individuals and groups to challenge unjust systems and promote social change (Scott, 1985; Foucault, 1978). Resistance can take many forms, including nonviolent civil disobedience, armed struggle, and everyday forms of resistance such as foot-dragging and sabotage (Scott, 1985).

In the context of the Anglophone crisis, resistance has taken many forms, including peaceful protests, boycotts, and armed struggle (International Crisis Group, 2019). The crisis has also highlighted the complex and often fraught relationships between the Cameroonian government, the Anglophone population, and the international community (Human Rights Watch, 2020).

This study aims to contribute to a deeper understanding of the Anglophone crisis and the role of resistance in addressing systemic injustice. Using a qualitative research design, this study will examine the various forms of resistance employed by the Anglophone community, including protests, boycotts, and armed conflict. The study will also analyze the impact of resistance on the crisis and the government’s response. Data will be collected through in-depth desk reviews, relevant literature sources and active observation of the researcher who hails for the area.

This research is significant because it addresses a critical issue that has received limited attention in academic literature. The study’s findings will contribute to a better understanding of the Anglophone crisis and the role of resistance in addressing systemic injustice, providing valuable insights for policymakers, international organizations, and local stakeholders.

Historical context of the Anglophone Crises in Cameroon

The Anglophone crisis in Cameroon has its roots in the country’s colonial and post-colonial history (Konings & Nyamnjoh, 2003). To understand the current conflict, it is essential to examine the historical context in which the Anglophone community has evolved.

Examination of the colonial and post-colonial history of Cameroon

Colonial Era (1884-1960)

During the colonial era, Cameroon was divided between British and French colonial powers (Awasom, 2011). The British controlled the western part of the country, while the French controlled the eastern part. This division had a lasting impact on the country’s linguistic, cultural, and educational systems (Kofele-Kale, 1986).

In the British-controlled territory, English was the language of instruction, and the education system was modeled after the British system (Nyamnjoh, 2011). In contrast, the French-controlled territory used French as the language of instruction, and the education system was modeled after the French system.

Post-Colonial Era (1960-1972)

After Cameroon gained independence in 1960, the country was reunified under a federal system (Eban, 2014). The federal system recognized the linguistic and cultural differences between the Anglophone and Francophone communities.

However, in 1972, President Ahmadou Ahidjo abolished the federal system and introduced a unitary system (Mentan, 2010). This move was seen as an attempt to assimilate the Anglophone community into the dominant Francophone culture.

Assimilation and Marginalization (1972-1990s)

Under the unitary system, the Anglophone community faced significant marginalization and exclusion (Konings & Nyamnjoh, 2003). The government imposed French as the sole official language, and English was relegated to secondary status (Nyamnjoh, 2011).

The education system was also Francophonized, with French becoming the language of instruction in all schools (Kofele-Kale, 1986). This move further marginalized the Anglophone community, as many Anglophones were unable to access education and employment opportunities.

Democratization and the Anglophone Problem (1990s-2016)

In the 1990s, Cameroon transitioned to a multiparty democracy (Mentan, 2010). However, the Anglophone community continued to face significant marginalization and exclusion.In 2016, the Anglophone community began to mobilize against the government’s attempts to impose French on the Anglophone regions (International Crisis Group, 2020). The protests, which began as a peaceful movement, eventually turned violent, leading to the current crisis.

The historical context of the Anglophone crisis is complex and multifaceted (Konings & Nyamnjoh, 2003). The legacy of colonialism, the assimilation policies of the post-colonial government, and the marginalization of the Anglophone community have all contributed to the current crisis.Understanding this historical context is essential to addressing the root causes of the crisis and finding a lasting solution.

The Role of British and French Colonial Powers in Shaping the Anglophone and Francophone Regions

The colonial era had a profound impact on the development of Cameroon, particularly in the shaping of the Anglophone and Francophone regions. British and French colonial powers played a significant role in this process.

British Colonial Rule in the Anglophone Region

The British controlled the western part of Cameroon, which is now the Anglophone region, from 1911 to 1961 (Awasom, 2011). During this period, the British imposed their language, culture, and education system on the local population. English became the language of instruction, and the education system was modeled after the British system (Nyamnjoh, 2011).The British also introduced their system of government, which was based on indirect rule (Kofele-Kale, 1986). This system relied on local chiefs and traditional authorities to govern the population on behalf of the British colonial authorities.

French Colonial Rule in the Francophone Region

The French controlled the eastern part of Cameroon, which is now the Francophone region, from 1911 to 1960 (Eban, 2014). During this period, the French imposed their language, culture, and education system on the local population. French became the language of instruction, and the education system was modeled after the French system (Kofele-Kale, 1986).The French also introduced their system of government, which was based on direct rule (Mentan, 2010). This system relied on French colonial administrators to govern the population directly.

Legacy of Colonialism

The legacy of British and French colonial rule can still be seen in the modern-day Anglophone and Francophone regions of Cameroon. The Anglophone region has maintained a distinct cultural and linguistic identity, with English remaining the primary language of instruction and communication (Nyamnjoh, 2011).In contrast, the Francophone region has been more heavily influenced by French culture and language, with French remaining the primary language of instruction and communication (Kofele-Kale, 1986).The differences between the Anglophone and Francophone regions have contributed to tensions and conflicts between the two groups, particularly in the context of the Anglophone crisis (International Crisis Group, 2020).

Impact of Colonialism on the Anglophone Community

The impact of colonialism on the Anglophone community in Cameroon has been profound and lasting. The British colonial administration imposed their language, culture, and education system on the local population, which had a significant impact on the community’s identity, culture, and socio-economic development.

Cultural Impact

Colonialism had a significant impact on the culture of the Anglophone community. The British imposed their own cultural values and norms on the local population, which led to the suppression of indigenous cultures and traditions (Fowler, 2009). The Anglophone community was forced to adopt Western cultural practices, such as Christianity, which replaced traditional religions and customs.

Linguistic Impact

The British also imposed their language, English, on the Anglophone community. English became the language of instruction, administration, and commerce, which had a significant impact on the community’s language and communication patterns (Mufwene, 2001). The imposition of English led to the suppression of indigenous languages and the creation of a linguistic divide between the Anglophone and Francophone communities.

Economic Impact

Colonialism also had a significant impact on the economy of the Anglophone community. The British exploited the region’s natural resources, such as timber, rubber, and oil, which led to the enrichment of British companies and the impoverishment of the local population (Jua, 2003). The Anglophone community was also forced to adopt a cash economy, which replaced traditional subsistence farming and led to the displacement of rural communities.

Education Impact

The British colonial administration also imposed their education system on the Anglophone community. The education system was designed to produce clerks, interpreters, and other low-level administrators who could serve the colonial administration (Banya, 2005). The education system was not designed to promote the socio-economic development of the Anglophone community, but rather to serve the interests of the colonial powers.

Legacy of Colonialism

The legacy of colonialism continues to have an impact on the Anglophone community today. The community continues to struggle with the cultural, linguistic, and economic impacts of colonialism, which have contributed to the community’s marginalization and exclusion (Taku, 2015). The Anglophone crisis, which began in 2016, is a direct result of the community’s struggles with the legacy of colonialism.

Theoretical Perspectives: Understanding Resistance and Injustice

The Anglophone crisis in Cameroon can be understood through various theoretical perspectives that shed light on the complex dynamics of resistance and injustice. Critical theory, for instance, provides a useful framework for understanding the power dynamics at play in the crisis. Critical theorists such as Antonio Gramsci and Michel Foucault argue that power is exercised through complex networks of relationships and institutions, rather than through a single dominant group (Gramsci, 1971; Foucault, 1978).

In the context of the Anglophone crisis, critical theories can help us understand how the Cameroonian government has exercised power over the Anglophone population through a range of institutions and relationships.

Postcolonial theory

It can provide a useful framework for understanding the historical and cultural contexts of the Anglophone crisis. Postcolonial theorists such as Frantz Fanon and Edward Said argue that colonialism has had a profound impact on the cultures and identities of colonized peoples (Fanon, 1963; Said, 1978). In the context of the Anglophone crisis, postcolonial theory can help us understand how the legacy of colonialism has contributed to the crisis.

Social movement theory

It can help us understand the dynamics of resistance and mobilization in the Anglophone crisis. Social movement theorists such as Charles Tilly and Sidney Tarrow argue that social movements are driven by a range of factors, including grievances, resources, and opportunities (Tilly, 1978; Tarrow, 1994). In the context of the Anglophone crisis, social movement theory can help us understand how the Anglophone population has mobilized to resist the government’s authority and demand greater autonomy and representation.

Human rights theory

It provides a useful framework for understanding the human rights implications of the Anglophone crisis. Human rights theorists such as John Rawls and Amartya Sen argue that human rights are universal and inalienable, and that they provide a moral and legal framework for evaluating the actions of governments and other actors (Rawls, 1971; Sen, 1999). In the context of the Anglophone crisis, human rights theory can help us understand the human rights implications of the crisis and the obligations of the Cameroonian government to respect and protect the human rights of the Anglophone population.

Social Contract Theory and Resistance

Social contract theory posits that individuals enter into a contract with the state, surrendering some of their rights in exchange for protection and security (Rousseau, 1762). However, when the state fails to uphold its end of the bargain, individuals have the right to resist and challenge the state’s authority (Locke, 1689). In the context of the Anglophone crisis, the state’s failure to address the grievances of the Anglophone minority has led to widespread resistance and calls for independence (Konings, 2005).

Civil Disobedience Theory and Nonviolent Resistance

Civil disobedience theory, as espoused by thinkers such as Henry David Thoreau and Martin Luther King Jr., argues that individuals have a moral obligation to disobey unjust laws and challenge unjust systems (Thoreau, 1849; King, 1963). In the context of the Anglophone crisis, nonviolent resistance has been a key strategy employed by Anglophone activists, who have used tactics such as boycotts, strikes, and demonstrations to challenge the state’s authority (Awasom, 2017).

Postcolonial Theory and the Politics of Identity

Postcolonial theory argues that colonialism has had a profound impact on the identities and cultures of colonized peoples (Fanon, 1961; Said, 1978). In the context of the Anglophone crisis, the legacy of colonialism has contributed to the politicization of identity and the creation of separate Anglophone and Francophone identities (Nyamnjoh, 2017). Understanding the politics of identity is crucial to resolving the Anglophone crisis, as it requires addressing the historical and cultural grievances of the Anglophone minority.

Systemic Injustice and Marginalization in Cameroon

The Anglophone community in Cameroon has faced systemic injustice and marginalization for decades. This has resulted in the community’s exclusion from power and decision-making processes, perpetuating their socio-economic and political marginalization.

Examination of the ways in which the Anglophone community has been marginalized and excluded from power

Historical Marginalization

The Anglophone community’s marginalization began during the colonial era, when the British and French colonial powers imposed their languages, cultures, and education systems on the local population (Fowler, 2009). The Anglophone community was forced to adopt Western

Post-Colonial Marginalization

After Cameroon gained independence in 1960, the Francophone-dominated government continued to marginalize the Anglophone community (Jua, 2003). The government imposed French as the sole official language, and English was relegated to secondary status. This move further marginalized the Anglophone community, as many Anglophones were unable to access education and employment opportunities.

Economic Marginalization

The Anglophone community has also faced economic marginalization. The region’s natural resources, such as timber, rubber, and oil, have been exploited by the central government, with little benefit to the local population (Taku, 2015). The community has also been excluded from key economic decision-making processes, perpetuating their poverty and underdevelopment.

Political Marginalization

The Anglophone community has been excluded from key political decision-making processes, perpetuating their marginalization. The community has limited representation in the national assembly, and their voices are often ignored in national debates (Banya, 2005). The community has also faced repression and violence when they have attempted to assert their rights and interests.

Cultural Marginalization

The Anglophone community’s culture has also been marginalized. The community’s language, English, is often seen as inferior to French, and their cultural practices are often ignored or suppressed (Mufwene, 2001). The community’s history and heritage are also often excluded from national narratives, perpetuating their cultural marginalization.

The Anglophone community in Cameroon has faced systemic injustice and marginalization for decades. The community’s exclusion from power and decision-making processes has perpetuated their socio-economic and political marginalization. Addressing these injustices is essential to promoting peace, stability, and development in Cameroon.

Analysis of the Role of Language, Education, and Economic Policies in Perpetuating Systemic Injustice

Systemic injustice in Cameroon is perpetuated by a complex interplay of factors, including language, education, and economic policies. These policies have created a system of inequality and exclusion that disproportionately affects the Anglophone community.

Language Policy

The language policy in Cameroon has been a major factor in perpetuating systemic injustice. The government’s decision to impose French as the sole official language has marginalized the Anglophone community and limited their access to education, employment, and other opportunities (Tchoungui, 2012). The dominance of French has also led to the suppression of indigenous languages and cultures.

Education Policy

The education policy in Cameroon has also contributed to systemic injustice. The government’s decision to adopt a Francophone-dominated education system has limited the opportunities available to Anglophone students (Fonchingong, 2005). The education system has also been criticized for its bias towards Francophone culture and history, which has perpetuated the marginalization of the Anglophone community.

Economic Policy

Economic policies in Cameroon have also perpetuated systemic injustice. The government’s decision to prioritize the development of the Francophone region has led to the neglect of the Anglophone region (Kofele-Kale, 2007). The government’s economic policies have also been criticized for their failure to address the poverty and underdevelopment that are prevalent in the Anglophone region.

Intersectionality of Language, Education, and Economic Policies

The intersectionality of language, education, and economic policies has created a system of inequality and exclusion that disproportionately affects the Anglophone community. The dominance of French has limited the opportunities available to Anglophone students, who are often forced to learn in a language that is not their own (Tchoungui, 2012). The education system has also perpetuated the marginalization of the Anglophone community by prioritizing Francophone culture and history.

The economic policies of the government have also perpetuated the poverty and underdevelopment that are prevalent in the Anglophone region. The government’s decision to prioritize the development of the Francophone region has led to the neglect of the Anglophone region, which has limited the opportunities available to Anglophone citizens (Kofele-Kale, 2007).

The analysis of the role of language, education, and economic policies in perpetuating systemic injustice in Cameroon highlights the complex interplay of factors that have created a system of inequality and exclusion. Addressing these injustices will require a comprehensive approach that takes into account the intersectionality of language, education, and economic policies.

The Impact of Systemic Injustice on the Anglophone Community

The Anglophone community in Cameroon has faced significant challenges due to systemic injustice. This injustice has had far-reaching consequences, affecting various aspects of the community’s life, including their economic, social, cultural, and political well-being.

Economic Consequences

Systemic injustice has led to significant economic disparities between the Anglophone and Francophone communities. The Anglophone community has limited access to economic opportunities, infrastructure development, and social services (Kofele-Kale, 2007). This has resulted in higher levels of poverty, unemployment, and underdevelopment in the Anglophone regions.

Social Consequences

Systemic injustice has also had significant social consequences for the Anglophone community. The community has faced discrimination, marginalization, and exclusion from social services, including education and healthcare (Fonchingong, 2005). This has led to a sense of alienation and disaffection among Anglophones, who feel that their rights and interests are not being represented.

Cultural Consequences

The Anglophone community’s culture has also been impacted by systemic injustice. The community’s language, English, is often relegated to secondary status, and their cultural practices are often suppressed or ignored (Tchoungui, 2012). This has led to a loss of cultural identity and heritage among Anglophones.

Political Consequences

Systemic injustice has also had significant political consequences for the Anglophone community. The community has limited representation in government and decision-making processes, which has led to a lack of accountability and responsiveness to their needs (Konings, 2011). This has resulted in a sense of powerlessness and disenfranchisement among Anglophones.

Psychological Consequences

The impact of systemic injustice on the Anglophone community has also been psychological. The community has experienced trauma, stress, and anxiety due to their experiences of marginalization and exclusion (Ndlovu-Gatsheni, 2013). This has led to a sense of hopelessness and despair among Anglophones.

The impact of systemic injustice on the Anglophone community in Cameroon has been far-reaching and devastating. The community has faced significant economic, social, cultural, and political challenges, which have resulted in a sense of alienation, disaffection, and powerlessness. Addressing these injustices is essential to promoting peace, stability, and development in Cameroon.

Resistance and Defiance in the Anglophone Crisis

Examination of the various forms of resistance employed by the Anglophone community (e.g. protests, boycotts, armed conflict)

The Anglophone crisis in Cameroon has been marked by various forms of resistance and defiance employed by the Anglophone community. These forms of resistance have been in response to the systemic injustice, marginalization, and exclusion faced by the community.

Protests and Demonstrations

One of the earliest forms of resistance employed by the Anglophone community was protests and demonstrations. In 2016, Anglophone lawyers, teachers, and students took to the streets to protest against the imposition of French language and culture on the Anglophone regions (International Crisis Group, 2020). The protests were peaceful, but were met with violence and repression by the government.

Boycotts and Strike Actions

Another form of resistance employed by the Anglophone community has been boycotts and strike actions. In 2017, Anglophone teachers and lawyers launched a strike action, boycotting schools and courts in protest against the government’s refusal to address their grievances (Human Rights Watch, 2018). The strike action lasted for several months, causing significant disruptions to the education and justice systems.

Armed Conflict

In 2017, the Anglophone crisis took a violent turn, with the emergence of armed groups fighting for independence or greater autonomy for the Anglophone regions (BBC News, 2020). The armed conflict has resulted in significant human suffering, displacement, and destruction of infrastructure.

Civil Disobedience

The Anglophone community has also employed civil disobedience as a form of resistance. In 2018, Anglophone activists launched a campaign of civil disobedience, encouraging Anglophones to refuse to pay taxes, attend school, or participate in government-sponsored events (Al Jazeera, 2019). The campaign was largely successful, with many Anglophones participating in the boycott.

International Advocacy

The Anglophone community has also sought international advocacy as a form of resistance. Anglophone activists have traveled to international forums, such as the United Nations, to raise awareness about the crisis and to seek support for their cause (UN News, 2020).

The Anglophone crisis in Cameroon has been marked by various forms of resistance and defiance employed by the Anglophone community. These forms of resistance have been in response to the systemic injustice, marginalization, and exclusion faced by the community. The crisis has significant humanitarian, political, and economic implications, and requires a comprehensive and inclusive solution.

Analysis of the role of key figures and organizations in promoting resistance and defiance

The Anglophone crisis in Cameroon has been marked by the emergence of key figures and organizations that have played a significant role in promoting resistance and defiance. These individuals and groups have used various strategies to mobilize the Anglophone community and challenge the government’s authority.

Key Figures

Ambazonia Leaders: The leaders of the Ambazonia movement, such as Julius Ayuk Tabe and Sisiku Ayuk Tabe, have been instrumental in promoting resistance and defiance (Atanga, 2019). They have used social media and other platforms to mobilize support and coordinate protests.

Bishop George Nkuo: He is a prominent Anglophone cleric, has been a vocal critic of the government’s handling of the crisis (Kpuenen, 2020). He has used his platform to advocate for the rights of the Anglophone community and to promote peaceful resistance.

Dr. Fontem Neba: He is a prominent Anglophone academic, has been a key figure in promoting resistance and defiance (Neba, 2018). He has used his expertise to analyze the crisis and to develop strategies for peaceful resistance.

Organizations

Ambazonia Movement: The Ambazonia movement is a separatist organization that seeks to create an independent state for the Anglophone community (Eko, 2019). The movement has been instrumental in promoting resistance and defiance, using tactics such as protests, boycotts, and armed conflict.

Southern Cameroons National Council (SCNC): The SCNC is a non-violent organization that seeks to promote the rights of the Anglophone community (Fonchingong, 2017). The organization has been instrumental in promoting peaceful resistance, using tactics such as protests, boycotts, and advocacy.

Cameroon Anglophone Civil Society Consortium (CACSC): The CACSC is a coalition of civil society organizations that seek to promote the rights of the Anglophone community (Tanda, 2020). The consortium has been instrumental in promoting peaceful resistance, using tactics such as protests, boycotts, and advocacy.

Tactics and Strategies

The key figures and organizations promoting resistance and defiance have used a range of tactics and strategies, including:

Social Media: Social media has been a key platform for mobilizing support and coordinating protests (Makon, 2020).

Protests and Demonstrations: Protests and demonstrations have been used to draw attention to the crisis and to pressure the government to respond (Kofele-Kale, 2019).

Boycotts: Boycotts have been used to disrupt the economy and to pressure the government to respond (Taku, 2020).

Advocacy: Advocacy has been used to raise awareness about the crisis and to pressure the government to respond (Ngonnso, 2019).

The key figures and organizations promoting resistance and defiance have played a significant role in shaping the Anglophone crisis in Cameroon. Their tactics and strategies have helped to mobilize the Anglophone community and to pressure the government to respond.

Impact of resistance on the crisis and the government’s response

Impact of Resistance on the Crisis and the Government’s Response

The resistance movement in the Anglophone regions of Cameroon has had a significant impact on the crisis and the government’s response. The movement’s tactics, including protests, boycotts, and armed conflict, have pressured the government to address the grievances of the Anglophone community.

Impact on the Crisis

The resistance movement has:

Increased international attention: The movement’s efforts have drawn international attention to the crisis, with organizations such as the United Nations and Amnesty International condemning the government’s actions (UN News, 2020).

Disrupted economic activity: The movement’s boycotts and protests have disrupted economic activity in the Anglophone regions, putting pressure on the government to address the crisis (Reuters, 2019).

Created a sense of community: The movement has created a sense of community among Anglophones, who feel that their rights and interests are being represented (Atanga, 2019).

Government’s Response

The government’s response to the resistance movement has been:

Repressive: The government has responded to the movement with repression, using force to disperse protests and arresting movement leaders (Human Rights Watch, 2020).

Divisive: The government has attempted to divide the movement by offering concessions to some leaders while cracking down on others (Kofele-Kale, 2020).

Ineffective: The government’s response has been ineffective in addressing the root causes of the crisis, leading to continued instability and violence (International Crisis Group, 2020).

The resistance movement in the Anglophone regions of Cameroon has had a significant impact on the crisis and the government’s response. While the movement has pressured the government to address the grievances of the Anglophone community, the government’s response has been repressive, divisive, and ineffective. A more inclusive and responsive approach is needed to address the root causes of the crisis and promote a lasting resolution.

International Intervention and the Anglophone Crisis

Examination of the role of international organizations (e.g. UN, AU) in addressing the crisis

The Anglophone crisis in Cameroon has attracted significant international attention, with various organizations and countries calling for a peaceful resolution to the conflict. This section examines the role of international organizations, such as the United Nations (UN) and the African Union (AU), in addressing the crisis.

United Nations (UN)

The UN has played a significant role in addressing the Anglophone crisis. In 2018, the UN Security Council held an emergency meeting to discuss the crisis, and the UN Secretary-General António Guterres called for a peaceful resolution (UN News, 2018). The UN has also provided humanitarian assistance to affected populations and has supported dialogue efforts between the government and opposition groups.

African Union (AU)

The AU has also been involved in efforts to resolve the Anglophone crisis. In 2019, the AU Commission Chairperson, Moussa Faki Mahamat, called for a peaceful resolution to the conflict and offered AU support for dialogue efforts (AU Commission, 2019). The AU has also provided technical assistance to the government and opposition groups to support the peace process.

European Union (EU)

The EU has also been involved in efforts to resolve the Anglophone crisis. In 2019, the EU imposed sanctions on Cameroon in response to human rights abuses committed during the conflict (EU Council, 2019). The EU has also provided humanitarian assistance to affected populations and has supported dialogue efforts between the government and opposition groups.

Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs)

NGOs have also played a significant role in addressing the Anglophone crisis. Organizations such as Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch, and the International Crisis Group have documented human rights abuses committed during the conflict and have called for a peaceful resolution (Amnesty International, 2020).

Challenges and Limitations

Despite the efforts of international organizations and NGOs, there are several challenges and limitations to their involvement in the Anglophone crisis. These include:

Limited leverage: International organizations and NGOs have limited leverage over the government and opposition groups, which can limit their ability to influence the peace process.

Complexity of the conflict: The Anglophone crisis is a complex conflict with deep historical and cultural roots, which can make it difficult for international organizations and NGOs to develop effective solutions.

Competing interests: International organizations and NGOs may have competing interests and priorities, which can limit their ability to work together effectively to address the crisis.

International organizations and NGOs have played a significant role in addressing the Anglophone crisis in Cameroon. However, there are several challenges and limitations to their involvement, including limited leverage, complexity of the conflict, and competing interests. Despite these challenges, it is essential that international organizations and NGOs continue to support efforts to resolve the crisis peacefully.

CONCLUSION

The Anglophone crisis in Cameroon is like a complex puzzle with many interconnected pieces. The government’s failure to address the root causes of the crisis is like trying to force the wrong puzzle pieces together, resulting in a broken and fragmented picture. Despite international efforts to help solve the puzzle, the crisis remains unresolved, and the picture remains broken.

To solve the puzzle and restore the picture, the government needs to take a step back and re-examine the puzzle pieces. Immediately ceasing hostilities and engaging in a dialogue to find a peaceful resolution is crucial. This will help to clean up the puzzle table and provide humanitarian assistance to displaced persons and affected communities. Protecting human rights, including the rights to life, liberty, and security of person, is also essential.

In the medium term, the government needs to reorganize the puzzle pieces by committing to decentralization reforms, bilingualism, and community engagement to address the root causes of the crisis. Getting help from puzzle experts, such as supporting and empowering local stakeholders, including community leaders and civil society organizations, to take ownership of the peace process, is also vital. Using puzzle glue, such as supporting economic development initiatives in the Anglophone regions to address poverty and inequality, will also help to hold the puzzle pieces together.

In the long term, the government needs to create a new puzzle frame by engaging in constitutional reforms to address the historical and cultural grievances of the Anglophone community. Reflecting on past puzzle mistakes, such as establishing a truth and reconciliation commission to investigate human rights abuses and promote healing and reconciliation, is also necessary. Working with international puzzle solvers, such as collaborating with the international community to address the root causes of the crisis and promote inclusive governance and community-led initiatives, will also help to solve the puzzle.

By taking these steps, the government can solve the puzzle and restore the picture, bringing peace and stability to the Anglophone regions of Cameroon.

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