AFRICOM Deploys Anthropologists, Sociologists to Africa

Written by Roseanne Mailman

Monday, 17 May 2010 03:33

Share After using anthropologists and sociologists in Iraq and Afghanistan to gain a better understanding of socio-cultural factors important to the U.S. military's presence in the region, the U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) intends to use the same strategy in regions of rural Africa. The Socio-Cultural Research and Advisory (SCRAT) teams will speak local languages and keep a modest, professional presence in the regions. Some social scientists have raised concerns about ethical violations and working under informed consent, but the military has affirmed its commitment to respecting ethical and professional standards.