Global Facilitation Network for Security Sector Reform (GFN-SSR)

Security sector reform (SSR) is most often used as a platform for reform in fragile and post-conflict states and in countries transitioning from communism or authoritarian rule. This paper, published by the Geneva Centre for the Democratic Control of Armed Forces, reviews security sector and governance definitions, issues, approaches and actors. There is an emerging consensus that governance is an essential SSR component and that linkages among different actors be considered in order to achieve successful SSR.

Author: Source: 2009, 'Security Sector Governance and Reform', Backgrounder Series, Geneva Centre for the Democratic Control of Armed Forces (DCAF) Size: 8 pages (1.52 MB)
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What lessons does the experience of transforming the security system in Sierra Leone have for security sector reform (SSR)? This report from the Global Facilitation Network for Security Sector Reform documents Sierra Leone's security system transformation from 1997 to 2007. It chronicles the UK Government's intervention, including its transition from direct implementer to adviser, and analyses key security issues that arose during the period. Sierra Leone's experience shows how dedicated, capable people, given the space to reform their security institutions, can achieve a great deal under challenging circumstances.

Author: Peter Albrecht | Paul Jackson Source: Albrecht P., Jackson P., 2009, 'Security System Transformation in Sierra Leone, 1997-2007', The Global Facilitation Network for Security Sector Reform (GFN-SSR), University of Birmingham, UK Size: 228 pages (1.68 MB)
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Why is evaluation essential in conflict resolution and peacebuilding work? How can traditional evaluations be adapted for this purpose? This chapter from the Handbook of Conflict Analysis and Resolution examines the difficulties and possibilities of evaluating conflict resolution and peacebuilding initiatives. Renewed attention to evaluation strengthens connections between peacebuilding theory and practice.

Author: E. Çuhadar-Gürkaynak | B. Dayton Source: Gurkaynak, E. C., Dayton, B., and Paffenholz, T., 2009, 'Evaluation in Conflict Resolution and Peacebuilding', in Handbook of Conflict Analysis and Resolution, eds., D. J. D. Sandole, S. Byrne, I. Sandole-Staroste, and J. Senehi, Routledge, Oxon and New York, pp. 286-299 Size: 12 pages (4.1 MB)
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What implications do different theoretical approaches to institutional change have for security sector reform (SSR)? How can evolutionary approaches be applied to SSR in practice? This paper from the Libra Advisory Group examines theoretical approaches to institutional change and their implications for SSR. It argues that an evolutionary approach to SSR can make the reform process more democratic and lead to transformations that are locally-owned and sustainable.

Author: Volha Piotukh | Peter Wilson Source: Piotukh V., Wilson P., 2009, 'Security Sector Evolution: Understanding and Influencing How Security Institutions Change', Libra Advisory Group, London, United Kingdom Size: 37 pages (719 kB)
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What are the socio-economic and ecological effects of mass-production in the South for the purpose of matching mass-consumption in the North? This Third World Quarterly article examines the two levels of the process of displacement, which in the current global capitalist order inherently displaces insecurity onto marginalised populations in order to reproduce the social conditions for accumulation at a global level. This illustrates the current crisis as a momentary violation with an existing rational social order, the discourse of security seeks to normalise the global status quo and justify a sequence of actions to securitise it.

Author: Marcus Taylor Source: Taylor M., 2009, 'Displacing Insecurity in a Divided World: Global Security, International Development and the Endless Accumulation of Capital', Third World Quarterly, London: Vol. 30, Issue 1, pp 147 - 162 Size: 17 pages ()
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Africa has produced many able mediators in the past fifty years; it is time to refine, improve and assert this homegrown peacemaking capacity. This paper, published by the Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue, reports on the African Mediators' Retreat 2009, held to assess mediation efforts in various African states. Future discussions of the role of African mediators should address whether crisis response mediation undermines longer-term mediation objectives of social transformation and durable peace.

Author: HD Centre Source: Centre H., 2009, 'Meeting Report - African Mediators' Retreat 2009', Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue, Geneva, Switzerland Size: 34 pages (564 kB)
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What is the current situation of key human rights issues in Afghanistan? This annual report by Amnesty International discusses the failures of the government to maintain the rule of law and to provide basic services to millions of people even in areas under its control. There has been little progress towards improving human rights. The report provides a detailed outline of key issues Afghanistan faces ranging from reforms of the judicial and security systems to the provision of basic human rights and services to Afghan citizens.

Author: Amnesty International Source: Amnesty International, 2009, 'Amnesty International Report 2009: Afghanistan', Amnesty International Size: WebPage pages (WebPage)
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The OECD DAC Handbook on Security System Reform was published in 2007. What impact has it had at in the headquarters of donors and agencies and on the ground? This report, by the OECD, makes recommendations based on the responses received between April 2007 and April 2009. It addresses priorities outlined in the SSR Handbook, which include the challenges of bringing about coherence and co-ordination, and the importance of supporting local ownership. The concluding section builds on this analysis to identify opportunities that can support the further operationalisation of the SSR Handbook.

Author: Alan Bryden | Rory Keane Source: Bryden A., Keane R., 2009, 'Security System Reform: What Have We Learned? Results and trends from the publication and dissemination of the OECD DAC Handbook on Security System Reform', Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) Size: 18 pages ()
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Measuring the performance of a Security Sector Reform (SSR) programme is central to the assessment of its sustainability. A balanced approach is required in order to maintain control of the wider strategic perspectives. This paper by Cranfield University argues that there is a need to remain strategic in approaches to SSR programming due to the broad scope of SSR. Specific programme areas should be analysed according to wider strategic objectives rooted in national security, international development and national recovery frameworks. The study advocates the use of an adapted Balanced Scorecard framework to facilitate this process and support SSR.

Author: Dr Ann Fitz-Gerald | Dr Sylvie Jackson Source: Fitz-Gerald, A. & Jackson, S., 2008, 'Developing a Performance Measurement System for Security Sector Interventions', in Journal of Security Sector Management, Vol. 6, No. 1, March 2008 Size: 20 pages (950KB)
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What progress has been made with the African Standby Force (ASF)? What are the challenges for the African Union (AU) and its international partners is achieving full ASF readiness by 2010? This review by the Institute for Security Studies (ISS) gives an update on ASF progress. Training, doctrine, Standard Operating Procedures, and command and control concepts have been developed, but logistics remains hugely problematic. A more integrated concept of peace and security between the United Nations (UN) and the AU and more African ownership within the ASF are needed for African peacekeeping to be sustainable.

Author: Dr Jakkie Cilliers Source: Cilliers, J., 2008, 'The African Standby Force - An update on progress', ISS Paper 160, Institute for Security Studies, Pretoria, South Africa Size: 24 pages (452 kB)
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What lessons can be drawn from Liberia's attempt to implement an integrated peace process? This Institute for Security Studies paper examines the efforts of the Government of Liberia and the UN to craft strategic policy and programming responses with conflict and peacebuilding in mind. It argues that peacebuilding is an undoubtedly messy process and agents have to settle for 'partially coherent' solutions.

Author: Dr Erin McCandless Source: McCandless, E., 2008, 'Lessons from Liberia - Integrated approaches to peacebuilding in transitional settings', ISS Paper 161, Institute for Security Studies, Pretoria, South Africa Size: 20 pages (327 kB)
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What are the common problems in negotiating and implementing disarmament, demobilisation, and reintegration (DDR) programmes during peace processes? What lessons can be learned from experience to strengthen practice? This book by the Centre for Human Dialogue (HD Centre) provides first-hand observations on the negotiation of security issues in the El Salvador peace process and mediation in Aceh, Indonesia.

Author: Cate Buchanan Source: Buchanan, C. (ed.), 2008, 'Reflections on Guns, Fighters and Armed Violence in Peace Processes', Negotiating Disarmament Viewpoints Volume 1, Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue, Geneva, Switzerland Size: 38 pages (1.3 MB)
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How can operational effectiveness in humanitarian, development and security operations be improved to ensure community security? This project from the United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research has developed the Security Needs Assessment Protocol (SNAP) as a means of assessing local security problems, as they are understood by communities themselves. By adapting existing techniques used in interpretive cultural research, it can help agencies learn about the range and meanings of community-level security problems and so design more culturally attuned and more effective operations.

Author: Derek B. Miller | Lisa Rudnick Source: Miller, D. & Rudnick, L., 2008, 'The Security Needs Assessment Protocol: Improving Operational Effectiveness through Community Security', United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research (UNIDIR) Size: 77 pages (512KB)
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What are the issues facing the European Union in developing its Security Sector Reform policy? This book from the Geneva Centre for the Democratic Control of Armed Forces discusses the EU policy framework plus broader international perspectives, and examines EU SSR involvement in the Western Balkans, the former Soviet Union, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Indonesia and the Mediterranean and the Middle East. Key challenges in enhancing EU SSR interventions are lack of coherence and coordination. It is important to prioritise SSR at senior national and EU levels and to develop strategies for streamlined implementation.

Author: David Spence | Philipp Fluri Source: Fluri, P. & Spence, D. (eds.), 2008, 'The European Union and Security Sector Reform', DCAF, Geneva, Switzerland Size: 376 pages ()
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How can the UN engage effectively in post-conflict Security Sector Reform? What lessons can be learned from multidimensional peacekeeping missions in Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Haiti and Kosovo? This book from the Geneva Centre for the Democratic Control of the Armed Forces (DCAF) examines the role and experience of UN integrated missions in post-conflict SSR. A common, comprehensive and coherent approach is necessary to enhance UN SSR support. This is especially important in the areas of strengthening local ownership and domestic oversight and accountability of the security sector.

Author: Heiner Hänggi | Vincenza Scherrer Source: Hänggi, H. & Scherrer, V. (eds.), 2008, 'Security Sector Reform and UN Integrated Missions: Experience from Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Haiti, and Kosovo', DCAF, Geneva, Switzerland Size: 247 pages ()
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A professional, effective, accountable security sector is essential to consolidate peace and security, prevent conflict, and lay the foundations for development and human rights. This report by the UN Secretary-General examines the UN's role in supporting security sector reform, arguing that a coherent UN approach to reform is vital.

Author: United Nations Secretary-General Source: Secretary-General U.N., 2008, 'Securing peace and development: the role of the United Nations in supporting security sector reform', United Nations General Assembly (A/62/659-S/2008/39) Size: 19 pages (93 kB)
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What can be learned from field experiences of Security Sector Reform (SSR) to help improve future SSR implementation? This book is based on research by the International Peace Academy Security-Development Nexus Programme and explores nine case studies. The studies cover foreign countries conducting SSR in other states plus nationally-led programmes and the roles of multi-lateral organisations, multi-lateral development banks and private contractors. Findings suggest two main obstacles to the implementation of SSR programmes: managerial deficiencies and insufficient awareness of the political context in which such programmes are designed and implemented.

Author: Gordon Peake (ed.) | Eric Scheye (ed.) Source: Peake G., Scheye E., Hills A., (eds.), 2008, 'Managing Insecurity: Field Experiences of Security Sector Reform', Oxford Policy Management Size: 171 pages ()
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What lessons can the international community draw from the statebuilding efforts in Liberia? This chapter reviews the international community's experience in Liberia during its post-conflict transitional period and finds that deeply intrusive forms of intervention often risk long-term sustainability for medium-term success. It argues that unless reforms and reconstruction are rooted in consultation and a sense of local ownership they are likely to collapse as soon as donor interest and resources shift elsewhere.

Author: M McGovern Source: McGovern, M., 2008, 'Liberia: The Risks of Re-building a Shadow State' in Building States to Build Peace, Charles T Call (ed), Lynne Rienner Publishers, USA, ch. 14 Size: 24 pages ()
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West Africa presents a unique combination of some of the poorest states on the continent, with the widespread security challenges of recurring violent conflict and long-standing authoritarian regimes. Is it possible to assess the state of the security sector across the region? What are the obstacles to security sector reform (SSR)? This book, published by the Geneva Centre for the Democratic Control of Armed Forces (DCAF), maps SSR across West Africa, examines the broad range and diversity of challenges in sixteen country case studies, and provides entry points for SSR processes.

Author: Alan Bryden (ed.) | Boubacar N'Diaye (ed.) Source: Bryden A., N'Diaye B., Olonisakin F. (eds.), 2008, 'Challenges of Security Sector Governance in West Africa', Geneva Centre for the Democratic Control of Armed Forces (DCAF) Size: 431 pages (1.5 MB)
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How successful have Community Problem Solving Groups (CPSGs) been at representing their communities and identifying and solving problems? How supportive of their efforts are local government officials? This study from the United Nations Development Programme assesses the Support to Security Sector Reform (SSSR) Programme's CPSGs in Albania. In general, local governments are interested in supporting the CPSGs, local police officers are dedicated to community-based policing, and there are active CPSG members. The CPSGs thus have a lot of potential, which the SSSR Programme should help to realise.

Author: Sean DeBlieck Source: DeBlieck,S., 2007, 'Representation, Relevance and Interest: An Assessment of the SSSR Programme's Community Problem Solving Groups', UNDP Albania/SSSR Programme, Albania Size: 29 pages (336 kB)
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Are failed states temporary obstacles to democracy or long-term historical problems that cannot easily be solved? This paper from Third World Quarterly assesses four approaches to failed states with regard to the diffusion of democracy, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. Despite interest in moving beyond the status quo approach to resuscitating failed states, there is powerful resistance to change. Diplomatic inertia plays a role in the failure to decertify failed states and recognise new territorial states. New diplomatic tools and a fresh interpretation of problem states are now required.

Author: Brennan M Kraxberger Source: Kraxberger, B., 2007, 'Failed States: Temporary Obstacles to Democratic Diffusion or Fundamental Holes in the World Political Map?', Third World Quarterly, vol. 28, issue 6. Size: 18 pages (175 KB)
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What is the experience of security sector reform in Latin America and the Caribbean since the return to democracy? What are the security reform issues specific to the region? This report by the Facultad Latinoamerica de Ciencias Sociales, Chile (FLACSO-Chile) analyses security policy and reform in defence, public security, and intelligence in 20 countries in Latin America and the Caribbean. It finds that security sector institutions have struggled to adapt to newly installed democratic regimes and operate in parallel to governments. Limiting their autonomy and using an integrated framework in considering reform is necessary to develop security institutions that support democracy.

Author: Lucia Dammert Source: FLACSO, 2007, 'Report on the Security Sector in Latin America and the Caribbean', FLACSO, Chile Size: 202 pages (1.6 MB)
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Is the holistic, person-centred model of Security Sector Reform unworkable in post-conflict situations in the wake of the 'war on terror' agenda? Whose security is international SSR assistance addressing? This Journal of Peacebuilding and Development article analyses experience in Afghanistan and Iraq and questions the feasibility of translating current SSR policy into effective post-conflict programmes. A new understanding of SSR and a new donor approach is needed.

Author: Mark Sedra Source: Sedra, M., 2007, 'Security Sector Reform in Afghanistan and Iraq: exposing a concept in crisis', Journal of Peacebuilding and Development, Vol. 3., No. 2., pp.7-23. Size: 16 pages ()
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This article from the Journal of Peacebuilding and Development questions the disproportionate focus in Security Sector Reform on the role of the commercial security sector in West Africa. It argues that the contributions (negative and positive) of other non-state actors need to be considered to facilitate sustainable peacebuilding. The author calls for a comprehensive security agenda to integrate the wide variety of actors operating from different perspectives, and to bridge the gap between the democratic principles of security governance and the practicalities of diverse interests.

Author: Adedeji Ebo Source: Ebo, A., 2007, 'Non-state Actors, Peacebuilding and Security Governance in West Africa: Beyond Commercialisation', Journal of Peacebuilding and Development, Vol. 3., No. 2., pp.53-69. Size: 16 pages ()
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How do people protect themselves when the state does not? What can SSR learn from informal security mechanisms? This article from the Journal of Peacebuilding and Development examines informal community-based security systems in two fragile states, Colombia and Liberia. It finds that security services, whether state-sanctioned or not, must be viewed as legitimate by the communities they serve. Legitimacy is developed by involving community representatives in managing security oversight structures to ensure relevance to local needs.

Author: Richard Hill | Jon Temin Source: Hill, R., Temin, J., Pacholek, L., 2007, 'Building Security where there is no Security', Journal of Peacebuilding and Development, Vol. 3., No. 2., pp.38-52. Size: 14 pages ()
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How can Security Sector Reform in Africa be improved? How can the security problems posed by informal actors such as militias and vigilante groups best be addressed? This article from the Journal of Peacebuilding and Development argues that the creation of stronger states is key to these efforts. Case studies of Nigeria and South Africa illustrate that SSR in Africa could be enhanced by taking account of structural conditions that undermine the process of state-making. SSR therefore needs to help to enhance state capacity in order to improve the governance of non-state security actors.

Author: Jeffrey Isima Source: Isima, J., 2007, 'The Privatisation of Violence and Security Sector Reform in Africa: Nigeria and South Africa examined', Journal of Peacebuilding and Development, Vol. 3., No. 2., pp.24-37. Size: 13 pages ()
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How have political dynamics influenced Security Sector Reform and peacebuilding in Nepal? How can the longstanding association of the security forces with the monarchy and with oppression and opposition to democracy be overcome? This article from the Journal of Peacebuilding and Development illustrates that a key challenge following the decade of conflict is to separate the army from palace control and bring it under civilian oversight as part of the broader national process of building democratic governance. It also highlights efforts by India, China and the United States to secure a role for the monarchy in Nepal's emerging political system, and the threat this poses to internal security.

Author: Shiva K. Dhungana Source: Dhungana, S., 2007, 'Security Sector Reform and Peacebuilding in Nepal: a critical reflection', Journal of Peacebuilding and Development, Vol. 3., No. 2., pp.70-78. Size: 9 pages ()
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How far does Security Sector Reform (SSR) still have to go? Where do private security companies (PSCs) fit into SSR? This SDA-DCAF Roundtable Report looks at the efforts and successes of Europe's government aid donor agencies and NGOs in encouraging the concept and practice of SSR in post-conflict and post-authoritarian states. Furthermore, it discusses contribution made by the growing involvement of PSCs in providing military and civil services, thus contributing increasingly in SSR activities and related reforms. But do their involvement pose more challenges to SSR reform or do they offer real support? The contributions made by the speakers are brought together to offer possible solutions and recommendations to allow SSR a more efficient role in post-conflict and post-authoritarian states.

Author: Security and Defence Agenda Source: Security and Defence Agenda, 2007, 'Roundtable: Security Sector Reform: Public-Private Priorities' SDA Monthly Roundtable, 16 April 2007, Brussels Size: 26 pages (668kB)
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The international community has succeeded in putting an end to the civil war in Sierra Leone. But why has there been so little progress in tackling corruption and the exclusion of many people from public services and resources? This report, from Chatham House, describes the building and reforming of state institutions. It argues that further progress will depend on appropriate coalitions taking opportunities for reform as they arise. The international community needs to make a long-term commitment and develop a thorough understanding of local needs.

Author: Brian Thomson Source: Thomson, B., 2007, 'Sierra Leone: Reform or Relapse? Conflict and Governance Reform', Chatham House, London Size: 48 pages (597 kB)
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What are the costs and benefits of engagement in regional peacekeeping? Has Ghana been consistent in implementing its foreign policy objectives and the principles of ECOWAS security policies? This paper, for the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre in Ghana, analyses the factors which contribute to Ghana's engagement in regional peacekeeping. Ghana's participation in maintaining sub-regional peace and security has increased since the 1990s, but the country has been inconsistent in its promotion of regional security. There is an urgent need for a comprehensive security document and institutional reform that will incorporate defence, national security, and foreign policies.

Author: Emma Agyakoma Birikorang Source: Birikorang, E., 2007, 'Ghana's Regional Security Policy: Costs, Benefits and Consistency', Kofi Annan Peacekeeping Training Centre (KAIPTC), Accra Size: 16 pages (236 kB)
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What policies make for successes and for failures in security sector reform (SSR) in post-war reconstruction situations? This book chapter, published by the Institute for Security Studies in Pretoria, critically examines the case of Sierra Leone, which undertook to rebuild state security with extensive international assistance. One of the principal arguments is that the process of SSR reform must be spearheaded and owned by Sierra Leoneans themselves in order to be sustainable.

Author: Osman Gibla Source: Gbla, O., 2007, 'Security Sector Reform in Sierra Leone', in ISS Monograph Series No. 135: Challenges to Security Sector Reform in the Horn of Africa, eds. L. Le Roux and Y. Kidane, Institute for Security Studies, Pretoria, pp. 13-36 Size: 24 pages (163 kB)
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How can statebuilding be improved? This paper from the University of California argues that successful statebuilding may be possible if the international community adopts a new framework. It presents a relational concept, using Somalia and Somaliland as case studies, and identifies alternative ways to rebuild state legitimacy.

Author: David Lake Source: Lake D., 2007, 'Building Legitimate States After Civil Wars: Order, Authority, and Institutions', University of California, San Diego Size: 95 pages (902KB)
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What are the necessary steps to guarantee the success of the structural reforms adopted by government of Sri Lanka in an attempt to consolidate peace, enhance economic growth, promote investment by the private sector and reduce poverty? This project information document (PID) of the World Bank provides the outline of the second legal and judicial reforms project initiated by the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka. The PID provides the background into the issue of judicial reform in Sri Lanka and offers reasons as to the rationale behind the World Bank's involvement. It concludes with identified areas in which the World Bank could offer its support to the government of Sri Lanka with its structural reform process.

Author: World bank | Sriyani Hulugalle Source: World Bank, 2007, 'Second Legal and Judicial Reforms Project', World Bank, Report No.: AB2834. Size: 4 pages (16.8KB)
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What is hindering Bangladesh's efforts to achieve the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs)? What can the UK Department for International Development (DfID) do to assist Bangladesh? This Saferworld document is a Country Assistance Plan which emphasises the need to associate security, armed violence and development. This briefing highlights the security and development concerns of Bangladeshi communities and emphasises how a failure to tackle physical insecurity and armed violence will affect the Government's attempts to address poverty. The paper suggests key points that need to be reflected in DfID's new Bangladesh Country Assistance Plan (CAP) to support efforts by the Government of Bangladesh to achieve the MDGs.

Author: Rosey Cave Source: Cave R., 2007, 'Bangladesh Country Assistance Plan: linking security, armed violence and development', Saferworld, UK Size: 5 pages (68.62KB)
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Security sector (SS) spending in Sierra Leone needs to be integrated into all aspects of the country's public finance management (PFM) system. This report, authored by Peter Middlebrook and Sharon Miller, was commissioned by the United Kingdom (UK) Department for International Development (DFID). It charts the current level and structure of security-related expenditures and assesses their strategic coherence, consistency and fiscal sustainability. Without external support, the government of Sierra Leone lacks the fiscal resources to establish sustainable funding of its security sector.

Author: Peter J Middlebrook | Sharon M Miller Source: Middlebrook,P. & Miller,S., 2006, 'Sierra Leone Security Sector Expenditure Review', Prepared for the UK Department for International Development (UK-DFID) Sierra Leone Country Office, Middlebrook & Miller, London, UK Size: 64 pages (887 KB)
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How can the European Union (EU) better support security sector reform (SSR)? This report from Saferworld summarises the findings of a seminar on SSR and the EU's role in it. The seminar revealed that local ownership, holistic understanding and assessments, approaches tailored to local contexts and access to sufficient funding are all preconditions for effective SSR. The lack of coherence and a common understanding of SSR within the EU undermine the EU's strengths in SSR. The EU requires a common concept on SSR to ensure greater coherence and coordination.

Author: Saferworld Source: Saferworld, 2006. 'Developing a Common Security Sector Reform Strategy', UK Presidency of the EU in conjunction with the European Commission, Saferworld and International Alert Post-seminar paper. Size: 11 pages (85 kB)
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Effectively addressing security issues requires partnership between those affected by insecurity and those responsible for maintaining the welfare and safety of the public. This publication outlines the approach to community safety developed in south eastern Europe by Saferworld, the Balkan Youth Union (BYU), the Centre for Security Studies - Bosnia-Herzegovina (CSS), CIVIL and the Forum for Civic Initiatives (FIQ). This approach has delivered real change to the situations of those it sought to support. Approaches such as this can bridge the gap between the policies of institutions and the concerns of the communities they serve.

Author: Juliana Sokolová | Henry Smith Source: Saferworld et al. 2006. 'Creating safer communities: Lessons from South Eastern Europe', Balkan Youth Union, Centre for Security Studies, CIVIL, Forum for Civic Initiatives, Saferworld Size: 45 pages (1.36 MB)
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How effective was the reform transformation of the Peruvian police between 2001 -2004? This article from Civil Wars journal argues that Peru's police reform process suffered from fluctuating political interest and support. Consequently, although achievements were significant, they were much less than initially hoped. The article examines the host of difficulties faced in achieving reform and concludes that additional resources and consistent political and institutional backing are necessary to foster and sustain transformation.

Author: Gino Costa Source: Costa, Gino, 2006, 'Two Steps Forward, One and a Half Steps Back: Police Reform in Peru, 2001-2004', Civil Wars, vol. 8 no. 2, pp. 215-230 Size: 17 pages (114 kB)
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What are the chances of Liberia achieving stability after 14 years of war? What would be the consequences of new stability? This paper, by the International Crisis Group, argues that if Liberia becomes stable it will shore up the fragile peace in Sierra Leone and diminish the probability of armed conflict in Guinea. However, if a sensitive partnership between government and donors fails to materialise, Liberia will be in a difficult position and one that might open the door for a future, disastrous insurgency.

Author: International Crisis Group Source: International Crisis Group, 2006, 'Liberia: Staying Focused', Africa Briefing N°36, 13 January 2006, International Crisis Group, Dakar/Brussels Size: 16 pages (323KB)
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The British government's political, financial, logistical and security support to Sierra Leone has been critical in restoring peace. But will it lead to wider economic, political and social improvement? This article assesses security sector reform (SSR) in Sierra Leone. It suggests that the costs of SSR have been huge and, although successful, Sierra Leone is still near the bottom of the human development index and the peace remains fragile.

Author: Adrian Horn | Funmi Olonisakin Source: Horn, A. et al., 2006, 'United Kingdom-led Security Sector Reform in Sierra Leone', Civil Wars, vol.8 no.2, pp.109-123 Size: 16 pages ()
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Measuring progress is essential to the success of stabilisation and reconstruction efforts. This report, published by the United States Institute of Peace, examines the shortcomings of current processes, including the tendency to measure implementation rather than impact. Proper assessment tools and reliable measures of progress are needed to enable policymakers to take stock of the challenges before intervening and to continuously track the progress of their efforts towards stabilisation. Political will is also essential to ensure leadership and cooperation across organisational boundaries.

Author: Craig Cohen Source: Cohen, C., 2006, 'Measuring Progress in Stabilisation and Reconstruction', USIP Special Report, United States Institute of Peace, Washington, DC Size: 15 pages (2.26 MB)
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Approximately 25 per cent of the civilian aid to Afghanistan in 2001-04, €791 million, was provided by Denmark, Sweden, the Netherlands, the UK and Ireland. This joint report, led by the Danish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, provides an evaluation of this assistance. While aid has produced important results, this has come at a high financial cost. A sustainable impact will require long-term development support with the continued presence of the donor community for at least another ten years.

Author: Chr. Michelson Institute Source: Chr. Michelsen Institute, 2005, 'Humanitarian and Reconstruction Assistance to Afghanistan 2001-2005 from Denmark, Ireland, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom: A Joint Evaluation', Chr Michelsen Institute, Copenhagen Size: 215 pages (4,383KB)
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Security sector reform (SSR) is fundamentally important to effective conflict prevention and peacebuilding. It helps ensure and sustain the stability necessary for development. This Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) paper summarises key SSR programme design and implementation issues. Emphasising effective and democratically accountable institutions, SSR provides a framework to develop strategies to meet a nationally-defined vision of security and development needs.

Author: Source: Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, 2005, 'Introduction to Security Sector Reform', Development Assistance Committee, OECD, Paris Size: 10 pages (195 kB)
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How can the international community ensure the transition from interventionist military peacekeeping to local civilian ownership of public security management in post-conflict societies? In 2004 and 2005 the Geneva Centre for the Democratic Control of Armed Forces (DCAF) organised two conferences on public security management in post-conflict societies. This book from DCAF, the Austrian Ministry of Defence and National Defence Academy and the PfP-Consortium presents the papers and lessons learned from these conferences.

Author: Anja H. Ebnöther | Philipp Fluri Source: Ebnöther, A. H. and Fluri, P., 2005, 'After Intervention: Public Security Management in Post-Conflict Societies: From Intervention to Sustainable Local Ownership', Bureau for Security Policy at the Austrian Ministry of Defence, DCAF and PfP-Consortium. Size: 410 pages (1.69 MB)
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How has Colombia reoriented its approach towards the country's principal security challenge - a lengthy insurgency closely linked to criminal activity? Published by the Strategic Studies Institute at the U.S. Army War College, this paper assesses the sustainability of the counterinsurgency waged by Colombian President Alvaro Uribe against FARC rebels. Although not yet complete, this multifaceted campaign is likely to result in a Colombia that is more integrated, prosperous and democratic than at any time in the past 40 years.

Author: Thomas Marks Source: Marks, T., 2005, ' Sustainability of Colombian Military/Strategic Support for '"Democratic Security"', Strategic Studies Institute, U.S. Army War College, Carlisle Size: 45 pages (241 kB)
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After the 1991-2002 war, the international community invested heavily in setting up transitional justice mechanisms in Sierra Leone. However, fundamental issues like national reconciliation, a responsive and non-corrupt police and local access to justice remain elusive. What has gone wrong? This study by the Clingendael Conflict Research Unit (CRU) argues that in order for Sierra Leone to move from ephemeral transitional justice to sustainable rule of law, capacity-building of key domestic institutions needs to be taken more seriously.

Author: Pyt Douma Source: Douma, P. and de Zeeuw, J., 2004, 'From Transitional to Sustainable Justice: Human Rights Assistance to Sierra Leone', Clingendael Conflict Research Unit Policy Brief no. 1, Clingendael Conflict Research Unit Size: 4 pages (175 KB)
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There is a need for more comprehensive solutions to wider security sector challenges in conflict resolution. This report, from the Global Facilitation Network for Security Sector Reform, provides an overview of the security reforms that were implemented in Sierra Leone. It serves as a set of guidelines for practitioners supporting similar programmes in the future. It argues that the different elements of a Security Sector Reform programme should be sequenced strategically.

Author: Ann M. Fitz-Gerald Source: Fitz-Gerald, A.M., 2004, 'Security Sector Reform in Sierra Leone', Global Facilitation Network for Security Sector reform (GFN-SSR), Shrivenham Size: 24 pages (297 KB)
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The Government of Ethiopia is heavily dependent on international donors, without whom it cannot undertake development programmes, feed its population or even run its administrative machinery. This report, published by the Netherlands Institute of International Relations, analyses trends in international assistance to Ethiopia, including the delivery of humanitarian aid and support to elections and the media. Compared to its funding of humanitarian aid and relief, donor assistance to the democratisation process in Ethiopia has been relatively limited.

Author: Dessalegn Rahmato | Meheret Ayenew Source: Rahmato, D. and Ayenew, M., 2004, Democracy Assistance to Post-Conflict Ethiopia Building Local Institutions?, Conflict Research Unit Working Paper 27, The Hague, Clingendael Institute Size: 105 pages (461 KB)
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It is widely agreed that a safe and secure environment is necessary for sustainable development. There is a growing appreciation that sound security sector governance is critical in achieving such an environment. This paper, prepared for UNDP's 'Learning from Experience for Afghanistan' workshop, outlines key concepts and issues for external actors promoting sound security sector governance. It encourages the development of a contextual approach to external assistance.

Author: Nicole Ball Source: Ball, N., 2002, 'Democratic Governance in the Security Sector', UNDP, New York Size: 2 pages (63 kB)
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A badly-managed, irresponsible security sector contributes to unstable governments, excessive military expenditures, human rights abuses and intractable poverty. This document, published by the United Kingdom's Department for International Development (DFID), is a set of guidelines for DFID governance advisors and managers considering security sector reform (SSR). It may also assist those working on economic reform, social development and post-conflict reconstruction. SSR programmes should only be considered if they contribute to DFID's primary mission: the reduction of poverty.

Author: DFID Source: DFID, 2002, 'Understanding and supporting security sector reform', DFID, UK Size: 42 pages (232 kB)
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What lessons can be learned from the use of participatory action-research (PAR) in post-conflict situations? This article from the Berghof Research Center for Constructive Conflict Management outlines the methodology and achievements of the War-Torn Societies Project (WSP). WSP's work demonstrates that local ownership, capacity-building, partnership and respect for the dignity and rights of beneficiary countries can be made a reality. This has crucial implications for the way in which external assistance actors plan and deliver assistance in post-conflict situations.

Author: Agneta Johannsen Source: Johannsen, A., 2001, 'Participatory Action-Research in Post-Conflict Situations: The Example of the War-Torn Societies Project', in Berghof Handbook for Conflict Transformation, Berghof Research Center for Constructive Conflict Management, Berlin Size: 25 pages (613 KB)
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Why are security issues important for generating sustainable development? What are the current World Bank activities in this area? How can donors contribute to improving security? This report explores the relationship between security and development. The state of a country's security has a major impact on the Bank's ability to respond to a country's needs. Addressing these concerns has been difficult because understanding the nexus of poverty, insecurity and development, and a strategic approach to dealing with it are still evolving.

Author: World Bank Source: World Bank 1999, 'Security, Poverty Reduction and Sustainable Development: Challenges for the New Millennium', Washington D.C. Size: 40 pages (223 kB)
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What causes ethnic conflict, and why does it escalate? An article in International Security argues that intense ethnic conflict is usually caused by collective fears for the future. It presents a framework for understanding the origins and management of ethnic conflict, and recommends how the international community can intervene more effectively.

Author: David A. Lake | Donald Rothchild Source: Lake, D. A. and Rothchild, D., 1996, 'Containing Fear: The Origins and Management of Ethnic Conflict', International Security, vol. 21, no. 2, pp. 41-75 Size: 34 pages (3,810kB)
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What is the best way forward for post-conflict reconstruction? How can it become a foundation for sustainable development? This paper by the World Bank discusses the role that community-driven reconstruction (CDR) projects play in promoting local involvement. It looks at the experience of Timor-Leste and Rwanda and suggests that CDR is an instrument of choice for post-conflict reconstruction.

Author: Sarah Cliffe, Scott Guggenheim | Markus Kostner Source: Cliffe, S., Guggenheim, S., Kostner, M., 2003, CPR Working Paper No. 7, Social Development Department, World Bank. Size: pages ()
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