Abstract

MUNOZ JIMENEZ, Anakaren  and  GARCIA GOMEZ, Jazmín. Reshaping the NIACS from the Realpolitik Paradigm (Classical and Neo Versions): Analysis of the Congolese Case (1998-2003). rev.relac.int.estrateg.segur. [online]. 2022, vol.17, n.1, pp.119-134.  Epub June 30, 2022. ISSN 1909-3063.  https://doi.org/10.18359/ries.5829.

This article aims to review the two versions of the realpolitik paradigm to reveal which can be better adapted to explain Non-International Armed Conflicts (NIACS), reshaped since 1989. So, we maintain the hypothesis that the neo version of Waltz's realpolitik offers a more comprehensive approach to analyzing the reshaped NIAC dynamics than the classic version of Morgenthau's realpolitik. Implementing the former's three systemic levels and renewed concepts of actor, interest, and power enable a more open analysis of the NIAC causes, development, and consequences. The particular example of the Second Civil War in the Democratic Republic of the Congo or DRC (1998-2003) will be examined from political neorealism to verify its theoretical scope. The article is divided into three parts: The first will present the most relevant research concepts, the second will seek to build a theoretical framework necessary to analyze the subject matter, and the third will put the lessons from the selected NIAC into practice. All this process will make it possible to show the virtues and limitations of realpolitik concerning the changes in the armed dynamics, propose renewing the paradigm under a more open and flexible examination to study current disputes and, finally, help provide the necessary information on how to defuse the conflict that the DRC is still experiencing.

Keywords : Reshaped NIAC; realpolitik; classical realism; neorealismi; the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

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