The Foreign Policy Implications of the International Court of Justice Maritime Border Dispute Decision on Kenya-Somalia Relations

The study seeks to examine the foreign policy implications of the International Court of Justice border dispute decision on the Kenya- Somalia relations; the focus of the study being Kenya’s foreign policy on its relations with Somalia. The study focused on the period after the International Court of Justice ruling over the maritime border dispute. The study generally examined the impact of the ICJ ruling on Kenya’s foreign policy strategy, the tools of foreign policy for advancing Kenya- Somalia relations post judgement as well as Kenya’s foreign policy behavior towards Somalia. The securitization theory & the decision making theory were adopted as the theoretical framework of analysis. The main element of the securitization theory works around the internal- external nexus within security with its influence on politics and the development of foreign policy analysis while it builds on military action, peace keeping as well as conflict management and resilience. The central implication of this theory therefore enables policy makers to adopt every possible means in addressing threats. The decision making theory is based on foreign policy behaviors influenced by individuals acting to their own interests. The theory explains foreign policy choices as made by individuals and the impact it has to the state and the international system. This study adopts a qualitative method of analysis that aims at developing and understanding of the foreign policy dynamics as identified by the researcher. The study findings indicate the need to adhere to the Court’s ruling, the protection of territorial integrity and political interests which are some of the factors that influence Kenya’s foreign policy towards Somalia post judgement. While the ruling favored Somalia which may have further strained the Kenya- Somalia relations, the central thesis of this study is that Kenya’s foreign policy towards Somalia should favor its national interests. This according to the study will enhance the Kenya- Somalia relations post the Court’s verdict leading to a win-win situation for both states.