The 2008 Nelson Mandela International Essay Competition on African Security and Development invites entrants to examine the case of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), and explore "why it remains such a dysfunctional, conflict-prone state, and speculate on future options for the country." The Royal United Services Institute (RUSI) and The Brenthurst Foundation established this competition jointly, with the support of the Nelson Mandela Foundation, to encourage new perspectives on African Security and Development. Essays may focus on: 1) how a sustainable peace could be best be achieved; 2) the question of whether retaining the DRC’s current borders is the best solution to the crisis; and 3) the role of regional and global actors in conflict or peace in the country.

The winning entry will receive an award of £1,500 and a year’s free full Individual Membership to RUSI, valued at £200. Two-runners up will also each receive a year’s full individual membership.

Click here for more information about the competition.

Entries are preferred on Word documents attached to an email but will be accepted on paper by post to the contact details below. Essays must be between 3,000 and 3,500 words in English. The applicants name, a one-paragraph biography and current affiliation(s), address, and email must appear on the first page of the essay.

An international panel of judges selected by RUSI will assess the entries. The winning entries will be announced on December 1 2008.

Closing date for entries to the competition is October 31 2008.