The conflict in Somalia is not solely an "African" problem; nor is the proposed "solution." Moreover, America's proxy strategy is, on the whole, a bad one. Too heavily influenced by the national security interests of Somalia's neighbors and too focused on backing a centralized government that lacks popular support, the strategy has created opportunities for al-Shabab recruitment and has stifled meaningful, inclusive dialogue about Somalia's political future. Indeed, it has arguably created more problems than it has successfully addressed -- and it could do the same in other countries, if the United States widens the strategy's scope.
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