Two reports related to research on Boko Haram are now available online. These include a qualitative report, by START research director Amy Pate and a statistical analysis of the impact of interventions on Boko Haram activity, by START researcher John Stevenson. The research was supported by a Centers of Excellence Supplemental award from the Office of University Programs at the Department of Homeland Security, as well as the Strategic Multilayer Assessment office of the Department of Defense.
Boko Haram has been the subject of much international scrutiny in recent months, beginning after the April 2014 kidnapping of over 250 schoolgirls, an event that led to a worldwide cry over social media to “bring back our girls.” In recent weeks, a coalition of Nigerian, Chadian, Nigerien, and Cameroonian troops have made gains against Boko Haram, but it still holds multiple towns in northeast Nigeria.
The reports explore the following research questions:
- What are Boko Haram’s strengths and potential vulnerabilities?
- What policies can be employed to counter Boko Haram’s strengths and exploit its weaknesses?
- What are USAFRICOM options for engaging U.S. government and foreign partners to deploy policies to counter Boko Haram?
For more information on the qualitative report, “An Assessment of Jamāʻat Ahl as-Sunnah lid-daʻwa wal-Jihād (Boko Haram): Strengths, Vulnerabilities and Policy Options,” or to read the full document, click here.
For more information on the statistical analysis, “Statistical Analysis of Event Data Concerning Boko Haram in Nigeria (2009-2013),” or to read the full document, click here.