Explore the Social Conflict in Africa Database (SCAD). Learn how researchers use this tool to track protests, riots, and strikes across the continent since 1990.
When the Social Conflict in Africa Database (SCAD) first launched in 2011, it filled a critical gap in political science. At the time, most datasets focused only on large-scale civil wars or interstate conflicts. However, Idean Salehyan and Cullen Hendrix—then Assistant Professors at the University of North Texas—recognized that smaller “social conflicts” often tell a more complex story.
Today, SCAD has evolved into a powerhouse resource for researchers, journalists, and policymakers worldwide.
Beyond the Battlefield: Why SCAD Matters
Traditional conflict data often misses the “everyday” unrest that signals deep societal shifts. SCAD tracks events that fall outside the definition of organized civil war, such as:
-
Protests and Riots: Spontaneous or organized public demonstrations.
-
Strikes: Labor-related actions that disrupt the economy.
-
Communal Violence: Clashes between ethnic or religious groups.
-
Government Repression: Targeted violence against civilians.
By capturing these events, SCAD allows users to analyze patterns of instability before they escalate into full-scale warfare.
From 6,300 to 20,000+ Events
At its initial release, the database covered over 6,300 events from 1990 to 2009. Through consistent updates and expansion, the database now includes over 20,000 social conflict events. It has also grown geographically; while it started with a focus on 47 African nations, its methodology has since been applied to Mexico, Central America, and parts of the Caribbean.
The data is meticulously sourced from the Associated Press (AP) and Agence France Presse (AFP). This ensures that the records are grounded in verified, real-time reporting from across the continent.
Key Insights for a Modern Africa
The Social Conflict in Africa Database has proven to be an essential tool for understanding how environmental and political stressors intersect. Early research using SCAD revealed that conflict often spikes during extreme weather—both very wet and very dry years.
As Africa faces new challenges in 2026, from climate-driven migration to digital-age election unrest, SCAD provides the historical context needed to build resilience. It remains a primary resource for the Robert S. Strauss Center for International Security and Law at UT Austin.
Final Thoughts
The launch of the Social Conflict in Africa Database changed how we study African politics. By looking at riots, strikes, and protests, we see a fuller picture of the continent’s struggle and progress. Whether you are a student or a policy strategist, SCAD offers the data-driven clarity needed to navigate a changing landscape.
For more information; access the database here also the press release can be here too…
Related articles
- Africa Blog Roundup: Cote d’Ivoire Conflict, Libya and Africa, Polling from Nigeria, and More (sahelblog.wordpress.com)
- Podcast: Social Media and Social Conflict (loosewireblog.com)
- The World Bank’s new vision for Africa (one.org)
