Epistemological Challenges of Security–Driven Diplomacy in Executing Counterintelligence Operations along Nadapal Belt, Kenya–South Sudan Border

International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS) | Volume III, Issue V, May 2019 | ISSN 2454–6186

Epistemological Challenges of Security–Driven Diplomacy in Executing Counterintelligence Operations along Nadapal Belt, Kenya–South Sudan Border

Ochieng Mark Oduor¹, Professor Pontian Godfrey Okoth²

^1,2Department of Peace and Conflict Studies, Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology, P.O BOX, 190-50100 Kakamega, Kenya

Abstract:-The nomenclature surrounding the study of security-driven diplomacy in executing counterintelligence operations ‘clandestine’ operations, is loaded with varied understanding, thus, the very nature of covert counterintelligence exhibit an inherent epistemological challenge. Epistemology of security-driven diplomacy is an area that has not been explored sufficiently and reliably and consequently, how it influences the execution of counterintelligence operations along Nadapal belt. The objective of this study was to analyze the epistemological challenges of counterintelligence operations emanating from security-driven diplomacy along the belt. The study established that there were epistemological challenges of security driven diplomacy in executing counterintelligence operations. These challenges include: understanding epistemic communities, integration of epistemic communities, inadequate personnel, and lack of political good will and coordination of epistemic communities. In an attempt to address these challenges, this study delved into the measures to address these challenges, such as, re-conceptualizing epistemic communities, conducting selection and training, transnational policy coordination and community dialogue. The reality is that, these challenges can only be addressed if the measures mooted are put into account. The study recommends stringent measures tailored in understanding better, the epistemiccommunities. Additionally, the study recommends the establishment of sub-epistemic communities along the belt.

Key Words: Security-Driven Diplomacy (SDD), Epistemology, Counterintelligence operations (CIOs)

I .INTRODUCTION

Little literature focus on epistemic communities, a network of professionals with recognized expertise and competence. However, the demand for information has increased tenfold in recent history, thus necessitating the need for networks or communities of specialists capable of processing, providing and disseminating information hence community actors become an integral tool in executing counterintelligence operations. Transnational epistemic communities can influence state interests for decision making by illuminating salient dimensions in executing CIOs.

Read More