What is the outline of the research proposal "The New Wars and the Crisis of Compliance with the Law of Armed Conflict by Non-State Actors: A Case Study of the Republic of South Sudan"?

I. Introduction
- Background of the study
- Research problem
- Research questions
- Objectives of the study

II. Literature Review
- Definition of new wars
- Non-state actors and compliance with the law of armed conflict
- Case studies on non-state actors in armed conflicts
- Challenges of compliance with the law of armed conflict by non-state actors

III. Theoretical Framework
- Conceptual framework
- The law of armed conflict and its relevance to non-state actors
- Factors influencing compliance with the law of armed conflict by non-state actors

IV. Methodology
- Research design
- Data collection methods
- Case study approach
- Data analysis techniques

V. Case Study: The Republic of South Sudan
- Background of the conflict in South Sudan
- Non-state actors involved in the conflict
- Compliance with the law of armed conflict by non-state actors in South Sudan
- Challenges and obstacles to compliance with the law of armed conflict in South Sudan

VI. Analysis and Findings
- Compliance with the law of armed conflict by non-state actors in South Sudan
- Factors influencing compliance with the law of armed conflict
- Impact of non-compliance on civilians and the conflict

VII. Conclusion
- Summary of findings
- Implications for policy and practice
- Recommendations for future research

VIII. References

I. Introduction
A. Background on the Republic of South Sudan and the ongoing conflict
B. Purpose and scope of the research

II. The New Wars and the Challenge to the Law of Armed Conflict (LOAC)
A. Characteristics of the "new wars"
B. Evolution of LOAC and its applicability to non-state actors
C. Challenges and gaps in LOAC compliance

III. Non-State Actors and Compliance with LOAC in South Sudan
A. Typology of non-state armed groups in South Sudan
B. Analysis of compliance with LOAC principles:
1. Distinction between civilians and combatants
2. Protection of civilians
3. Prohibitions on certain weapons and tactics
C. Factors influencing compliance or non-compliance

IV. The Impact of LOAC Violations on the Conflict
A. Human rights abuses and humanitarian consequences
B. Obstacles to peace negotiations and reconciliation
C. Eroding trust and credibility of international actors

V. Strategies for Enhancing Compliance
A. Strengthening national and international mechanisms
B. Capacity building and training for non-state actors
C. Monitoring, reporting, and accountability measures
D. Role of civil society organizations and local communities

VI. Case Study: The Nuer White Army
A. Background and characteristics of the Nuer White Army
B. Evidence of LOAC violations and their impact
C. Challenges and opportunities for compliance

VII. Conclusion
A. Summary of findings and implications for LOAC
B. Recommendations for improving compliance and mitigating the impact of violations
C. Future research and policy considerations