(Part 1) Dr. Lilian Atanga and Henry Atem: The Southern Cameroon Conflict & Missed Opportunities for Peace

Lawyering Peace

In this episode of the Lawyering Peace podcast, we delve into the complex and ongoing conflict between Anglophone Southern Cameroon (Ambazonia) and the Francophone central government of Cameroon. Rooted in a history of colonization by different powers, the two regions developed distinct cultures. Over decades, this divide has been exacerbated by persistent systemic marginalization and discrimination against Southern Cameroonians. In 2016, these divisions escalated into an armed conflict involving numerous separatist groups and leaving civilians caught in the crossfire.

Joining the discussion are two expert voices from the Board of Directors of the Coalition for Dialogue and Negotiation, a U.S.-based nonprofit dedicated to fostering dialogue and peacebuilding in Cameroon. Dr. Lilian Atanga and Henry Atem Oben provide critical insights into the series of failed peace processes leading up to the 2022 Canada Talks. These include the 2016 teachers' and lawyers' strike, the government’s reneged offer of federalism, the 2019 National Dialogue, and the 2020–2022 Geneva Initiative. Together, they highlight how these efforts reveal the Cameroonian government’s repeated missed opportunities to negotiate a peaceful resolution with Ambazonia.

The episode delves into how the Ambazonia delegation, supported by the Coalition for Dialogue and Negotiation, prepared for the 2022 Canada Talks, and explores the delegation’s positions on key issues such as self-determination, disarmament, and accountability for atrocity crimes.

Tune in for a deep dive into the history, challenges, and opportunities of this conflict. Stay tuned for Part 2, where we analyze the 2022 Canada Peace Talks and discuss what’s next for Ambazonia.

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Host & Executive Producer: Dr. Paul R. Williams Co-Producer & Content Manager: Katie Hetherington Co-Producer & Creative Manager: Ryan Westlake