Includes bibliographical references and index.

The resilience of the African state -- The puzzle of territorial int egrity -- The enduring authority of weak states -- The domestic currenc y of international sovereignty -- The calculus of compliance -- Separat ist illustions and sovereignty variations -- The politics of unity and estrangement -- Sovereignty's shackles -- Rational policy fantasies.

Explores the endurance of Africa's weak states which, despite their failure to protect and promote the interests of their citizens, transla te international sovereignty into domestic legal command.