战略与国际研究中心-Africa-Notes_-An-Exit-Interview-With-Hank-Cohen_8页_1mb

CSIS Africa Notes: Summary of Ambassador Herman J. Cohen's Interview

Core Content

This interview with Ambassador Herman J. Cohen, conducted in early April 1993, provides an in-depth reflection on his four-year tenure as Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs. The interview highlights the key areas of focus during his time in office, including conflict resolution, democratization, economic reform, and U.S. foreign policy in Africa during the post-Cold War era.

Main Viewpoints

• Conflict Resolution as Priority: Cohen emphasized that conflict resolution was the top priority, as civil wars in countries like Ethiopia, Mozambique, Angola, and Sudan severely hindered economic development and regional stability. He noted that the U.S. played a significant role in promoting peace and democracy, with notable successes in Angola and Mozambique.

• Democratization and Economic Reform: The U.S. supported democratization and economic reform in Africa, leading to 15 reasonably democratic elections since 1989. Cohen also pointed out that the U.S. helped establish new programs to promote free elections, voter education, and civic organizations, increasing annual funding from $25 to $50 million.

• Shift in U.S. Policy Post-Cold War: The end of the Cold War allowed the U.S. to shift its focus from countering Soviet influence to promoting peace and development in Africa. This led to cooperation with the Soviet Union in resolving conflicts in Angola, Mozambique, and Ethiopia, and also improved U.S. engagement with the United Nations.

• Role of Regional Organizations: Cohen advocated for greater involvement of regional organizations such as the Organization of African Unity (OAU) and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in conflict resolution. He believed that these bodies are better suited to handle local issues than the U.S. or UN, which lack the necessary resources and energy.

• Arms Stockpiles and Military Role: He acknowledged the problem of leftover Cold War arms in Africa but argued that conflict resolution itself was the best way to address it. He also suggested that military assistance should be directed toward demobilization and retraining of ex-soldiers to support development.

• U.S. Involvement in African Politics: Cohen stressed that the U.S. should remain actively involved in African affairs, especially in the early stages of conflict to prevent escalation. He also noted that U.S. development aid to Africa has remained steady despite other global priorities, and that the continent is not being marginalized.

• Economic Debt as a Challenge: He warned that Africa's growing debt burden poses a significant threat to economic growth and political stability, calling for international efforts to reduce debt and extend repayment periods.

Key Information

• Successes in Conflict Resolution: Peace agreements were achieved in Angola and Mozambique, and the U.S. helped prevent the destruction of Addis Ababa and facilitated the exit of Ethiopian Jews.

• Role of the U.S. in Democratization: The U.S. helped shift the focus of African politics toward multiparty democracy, influencing both black and white South Africans to negotiate an end to apartheid.

• Challenges and Lessons: Lessons from Angola's failed multiparty election process included the need for third-party oversight, sufficient ceasefire monitors, and respect for the sequencing of security arrangements before elections. These lessons were applied to improve the Mozambique accords.

• U.S. Aid and Priorities: U.S. development aid to Africa has remained steady at around $800 million annually, with the U.S. being a major contributor to international aid through the World Bank, IMF, and UN. While Egypt and Israel receive more bilateral aid, Africa is not neglected.

• Advice to Successor: Cohen advised his successor, Ambassador George E. Moose, to remain activist and engaged in African affairs, as Africans value U.S. involvement and see it as a moral and strategic asset.

Conclusion

Ambassador Herman J. Cohen's tenure marked a significant shift in U.S. foreign policy toward Africa, focusing on conflict resolution, democratization, and economic development. His insights highlight the importance of early intervention, regional cooperation, and the role of the U.S. as a facilitator and supporter of African peace and stability.