Asymmetry Theory and Practical Application in US-Kenya Counterterrorism

Asymmetry Theory views asymmetry in a distinct light from the popular view in International Relations. Drawing from Womack’s (2016) perspective on Asymmetry Theory, international relations are interactions based on relational beads rather than independent transactions. The obvious distinction in global capabilities between a larger and a smaller state does not translate into anarchy as Asymmetry Theory concentrates on the interdependence of states. This study provided an analysis of the US-Kenya bilateral relations within a context of an asymmetric relationship and its counterterror influence in East Africa. It assessed the assumptions and impact of the Asymmetry Theory in the engagements of US-Kenya counterterrorism in East Africa. Secondary and primary data was collected through descriptive statistics in selected incidents of terror indicating Kenya’s vulnerability and resilient success in fighting the scourge of terrorism after 9/11. The study is timely for it unpacks the indispensable impact of the theory and its practical application in US-Kenya strategic approach to counterterrorism. Asymmetry Theory brings a new contribution in the study of counterterrorism, expanding the understanding of counterterror strategies. This study refutes contradictory claims that argue that power asymmetry between states is relative to dominance

Asymmetry and Power Disparity in East Africa: The Strength behind Interdependence and Cooperation in US-Kenya Counterterrorism

This study examined asymmetry and power disparity in US-Kenya bilateral relation to counterterrorism in East Africa. It employed a qualitative approach using a desktop approach. The study further employed secondary and primary data from incidents of terror attacks in East Africa since 9/11 period. The study is deemed significant because of notable persistent expansion of Al-Shabaab’s terrorist cells in the East African Region. Although this threat remains a concern to US-Kenya interests, the expansion of terror activities in regions such as the Central Africa and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) is alarming and brings relevance to this study. The study employed asymmetry theory as a benchmark to explain how international relations amongst states with visible power disparity can yield normalcy in bilateral and multilateral relations when tackling mutual insecurity threats such as terrorism. The study findings indicate that asymmetric bilateral relations are likely to respond positively to challenges posed by terrorism through counterterror measures pursued by means of interdependence and cooperation as is the case of US-Kenya asymmetric relationship. The counterterror measures employed through joint efforts despite the visible US-Kenya asymmetric power disparity present valuable lessons to the Southern African Region. Hence, the study recommends policy makers in Southern Africa to consider counterterror strategies that are incrementally multidimensional to better address the rising regional insecurities