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

What is the relationship between military power and international order? What impact did the development of nuclear weapons have on this relationship? This paper from the Journal of International Affairs is an abridged version of Michael Howard's inaugural lecture at King's College London in May 1964. It concludes that in the era of nuclear weapons, military power can only serve as an instrument of international order if it is subject to rigorous political control.

Author: Michael Howard Source: Howard M., 2009, 'Military power and international order', International Affairs, Volume 85, Issue 1, pp. 145-155 Size: 11 pages ()
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How can the international community engage successfully in peacemaking and peacekeeping? How can it develop effective exit strategies for such engagements? This article from the journal of International Affairs argues that, in most African conflicts, peace engagement can only be successful if international actors focus on achieving a bargain between elites based on the realities of the political marketplace. If they do not, they risk creating a mission without end.

Author: Alex De Waal Source: Waal A.D., 2009, 'Mission without end? Peacekeeping in the African political marketplace', International Affairs, Volume 85, Issue 1, pp. 99-113 Size: 15 pages ()
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How can armed violence be reduced in post-conflict situations? Are disarmament, demobilisation and reintegration (DDR) and small arms control programmes the most effective approach? This article from the Journal of International Peacekeeping argues that the effectiveness of DDR and small arms control programmes is unproven. Reducing armed violence in the aftermath of conflict requires a broader approach, which responds to the heterogeneous character of such violence.

Author: Robert Muggah | Keith Krause Source: Muggah R., Krause K., 2009, 'Closing the Gap Between Peace Operations and Post-Conflict Insecurity:Towards a Violence Reduction Agenda', International Peacekeeping, Volume 16, Issue 1, pp. 136-150 Size: 16 pages ()
Expanded document summary and link to full article

What have been the effects of counter-narcotics policies in Afghanistan since 2001? Have eradication campaigns been successful? This article from the Journal of International Peacekeeping argues that aggressive opium poppy eradication programmes have been premature and counterproductive. They have not increased stability or undermined the counter-insurgency. The most important role peacekeeping forces can play is providing security.

Author: Vanda Felbab-Brown Source: Felbab-Brown, V., 2009, 'Peacekeepers Among Poppies: Afghanistan, Illicit Economies and Intervention', International Peacekeeping, Volume 16, Issue 1, pp. 100-114 Size: 16 pages ()
Expanded document summary and link to full article

What are the links between illicit commerce and political relationships in West Africa? How can a contexualised understanding of social relationships improve approaches to post-conflict statebuilding? This article from International Peacekeeping critiques the automatic criminalisation of armed networks, some of which have strong societal roots. It argues for a more nuanced understanding of the connection between illicit economic activities and violent conflict and a more pragmatic approach to post-conflict statebuilding. A strategy that selectively incorporates some networks, and targets the more predatory, is likely to be most effective.

Author: William Reno Source: Reno, W., 2009, 'Understanding Criminality in West African Conflicts', International Peacekeeping, Volume 16, Issue 1, pp. 47-61 Size: 15 pages ()
Expanded document summary and link to full article

What are the priorities in terms of security in Nepal? What contribution can the European Union (EU) make towards building and maintaining peace in the country? This briefing from International Alert examines security sector reform (SSR) and public security in Nepal. It argues that there is an urgent need to address security provision and the security sector as part of Nepal's ongoing peace process.

Author: Charlotte Watson | Rebecca Crozier Source: Watson C., Crozier R., 2009, 'Security for Whom? SSR and Public Security in Nepal', International Alert Size: 28 pages (349 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How have peace negotiations in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) addressed issues of accountability? What impact have justice initiatives had following the conclusion of each agreement? This report from the International Center for Transitional Justice examines peace negotiations in the DRC since 1999, focusing on justice and accountability. It argues that while significant efforts have been made to advance accountability in negotiations, peacemaking in the DRC has resulted in very limited justice.

Author: Laura Davis | Priscilla Hayner Source: Davis L., Hayner P., 2009, 'Difficult Peace, Limited Justice: Ten Years of Peacemaking in the DRC', International Center for Transitional Justice Size: 44 pages (235 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

What hinders effective policing and the pursuit of terrorist and militant organisations in Pakistan? What lessons can be learned from successful Pakistani police operations? This policy paper from the Institute for Social Policy and Understanding looks at the need for police reform in Pakistan. It calls for greater international support for police reform in order to enhance Pakistan's law enforcement and counterinsurgency capacities and improve the security environment.

Author: Hassan Abbas Source: Abbas H., 2009, 'Police & Law Enforcement Reform in Pakistan: Crucial for Counterinsurgency and Counterterrorism Success', Institute for Social Policy and Understanding Size: 28 pages (3.4 MB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

A consensus among domestic security sector reform (SSR) actors in Haiti that the reform agenda is imposed from outside has led to limited local ownership of the process. This paper, published by the Centre for International Governance Innovation, reviews the current status of reform of Haiti's judiciary, police and penal systems. Until the suspicion of reform measures imposed by outsiders can be reversed and genuine political will for reform nurtured, SSR policy makers will be hard-pressed to succeed.

Author: Mark Sedra Source: Sedra M. (ed.), 2009, 'Security Sector Reform Monitor: Haiti', Centre for International Governance Innovation (CIGI), Canada Size: 12 pages (1.55 MB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

Integrated, comprehensive and inclusive armed violence reduction (AVR) programmes are an emerging and growing area of development practice around the world. This paper, published by the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development, discusses the components of a multi-level AVR approach. Adopting integrated AVR programmes requires understanding of the multi-faceted, multi-level nature of armed violence, application of rigorous diagnostics of local situations and incorporation of local ownership at all levels of programme design and implementation.

Author: OECD-DAC Source: OECD-DAC, 2009, 'Armed Violence Reduction: Enabling Development', Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development - Development Assistance Committee (OECD-DAC), Paris Size: 140 pages (1.7 MB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

Wars, particularly civil wars, are increasingly focused on cities. How can they best be tackled? This study from Columbia University reviews the history of city politics in Kabul and the processes of governance that occur at different levels. Multi-layered conflicts in capital cities can concentrate political attention and overload urban development and governance agendas. It should be understood that, in post-war capital cities, conflicts at the fault lines of local, national and international institutions shape political and economic agendas for the city.

Author: Daniel Esser Source: Esser D., 2009, Who Governs Kabul? Explaining Urban Politics in a Post-War Capital City', Crisis States Research Centre, London Size: 30 pages (784)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

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)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

Post-conflict environments can attract huge numbers of external actors that create management and coordination problems and often apply short-term approaches that can lead to resumption of conflict. This paper, published by the Geneva Centre for the Democratic Control of Armed Forces, provides an overview of security sector reform (SSR) in post-conflict environments. SSR success can be assessed by measuring the reduction of violence, economic growth, improved security professionalism and the degree of local ownership.

Author: Geneva Centre for the Democratic Control of Armed Forces (DCAF) Source: 2009, 'Security Sector Reform in Post-conflict Peacebuilding', Backgrounder Series, Geneva Centre for the Democratic Control of Armed Forces (DCAF) Size: 8 pages (1.50 MB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

In virtually all security sector reform (SSR) programming and delivery, intergovernmental organisations (IGOs) have either led international community efforts or supported the lead provided by other actors. This background paper, published by the Geneva Centre for the Democratic Control of Armed Forces, summarises IGO functions, norms and obstacles to their effectiveness. Underdeveloped IGO oversight mechanisms to ensure that activities are conducted in a transparent and accountable manner reduce IGOs' ability to contribute to long-term SSR sustainability.

Author: Source: 2009, 'Security Sector Reform and Intergovernmental Organisations', Backgrounder Series, Geneva Centre for the Democratic Control of Armed Forces (DCAF) Size: 8 pages (1.41 MB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

Are the factors that start internal wars the same as the factors that sustain them? This paper from the Third World Quarterly argues that the international community has been misguided in focusing on determining the causalities of internal wars and should instead focus on the contextual conditions and dynamic relationships that allow them to continue. Using the conflicts in Sudan as a case study, the paper concludes that time alters the reasons why internal wars are fought, and argues that the international community is not well placed to intervene.

Author: Benjamin Maitre Source: Maitre, B., 2009, 'What Sustains 'Internal Wars'? The Dynamics of Violent Conflict and State Weakness in Sudan', Third World Quarterly, vol. 30, no. 1, pp. 53-68 Size: 16 pages (152 KB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

Despite Nepal's 2006 Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA) targeting rehabilitation of children from armed group associations, the government has failed to implement satisfactory reintegration. This paper, published by the Institute of Peace and Conflict Studies, reviews the current status of the reintegration of Children Associated with Armed Forces and Armed Groups (CAAFAG). State failure to tackle deep-rooted inequality and structural problems continues to allow armed movements to recruit marginalised groups, including children, and consequently flourish.

Author: O. Housden | Institute of Peace and Conflict Studies (IPCS) Source: Housden, O., 2009, 'In a Weak State: Status and Reintegration of Children Associated with Armed forces and Armed Groups (CAAFAG) in Nepal', IPCS Research Paper, Institute of Peace and Conflict Studies, New Delhi Size: 19 pages (183kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

Negotiating Justice: Guidance for Mediators provides guidance on grappling with justice issues in peace negotiations. Co-published with the Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue, the report seeks to provide peace process actors with basic facts of law, guidance on amnesties and international criminal justice, as well as lessons for incorporating approaches to accountability. The report is written by Priscilla Hayner, cofounder of ICTJ and Director of ICTJ's Geneva office and Peace and Justice Program.

Author: Priscilla Hayner Source: Hayner P., 2009, 'Negotiating Justice: Guidance for Mediators', The Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue (HD Centre) and the International Center for Transitional Justice, Geneva Size: 24 pages (242 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How can civil society most effectively work for peacebuilding? This report presents the findings of a comparative research project which analysed the performance of civil society in regards to protection, monitoring, advocacy, socialisation, social cohesion, facilitation, and service delivery in situations of war and armed conflict. It concludes civil society can play an important supportive role, but the effectiveness of its activities varied substantially. Contextual factors may limit or strengthen its ability to contribute to peacebuilding.

Author: Thania Paffenholz Source: Paffenholz, T., 2009, 'Civil Society and Peacebuilding', Working Paper, The Centre on Conflict, Development and Peacebuilding, Geneva Size: 32 pages (364 KB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

Can particular mediation strategies be linked with successful outcomes? This chapter of the SAGE Handbook of Conflict Resolution discusses definitions of mediation, its performance, influential factors and evaluations of outcomes. Certain styles of mediation tend to be more effective in certain situations; intense conflict, for example, is likely to require directive forms of mediation. Mediation may well offer the most coherent and effective response to current conflicts, but greater understanding of the process and consistent guidelines are needed.

Author: Jacob Bercovitch Source: Bercovitch, J., 2009, 'Mediation and Conflict Resolution', in The SAGE Handbook of Conflict Resolution, eds., J. Bercovitch, V. Kremenyuk, and I. W. Zartman, SAGE, London, pp. 340-354 Size: 16 pages ()
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How is reconciliation understood? What is its role in peacebuilding? This chapter in the SAGE Handbook of Conflict Resolution presents a survey of the study of reconciliation, in particular analysing the Franco-German and South African cases. While not universally applicable models, these examples hold lessons for both the scope and limitations of reconciliation. Reconciliation has too many ambiguities and shortcomings to serve as the key concept in peacemaking and stabilisation.

Author: Valerie Rosoux Source: Rosoux, V., 2009, 'Reconciliation as a Peace-Building Process: Scope and Limits', in The SAGE Handbook of Conflict Resolution, eds., J. Bercovitch, V. Kremenyuk, and I. W. Zartman, SAGE, London, pp. 543-560 Size: 19 pages ()
Expanded document summary and link to full article

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)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

What is the extent and impact of the sexual violence perpetrated by government troops in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)? Why have efforts to stop sexual violence committed by soldiers failed so far? This report from Human Rights Watch looks at sexual violence committed by the Forces Armées de la République Démocratique du Congo (FARDC). It finds that sexual violence by the FARDC continues despite the efforts of the government, the international community and Congolese civil society. The DRC's military justice system is a weak institution and has done little to bring perpetrators of sexual violence to justice.

Author: Human Rights Watch Source: Human Rights Watch, 2009, 'Soldiers Who Rape, Commanders Who Condone: Sexual Violence and Military Reform in the Democratic Republic of Congo', Human Rights Watch Size: 62 pages (778 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How can the UK help to build peaceful states and societies as a foundation for sustainable development? What can the government do to work more effectively across government departments and ensure access to security and justice? This chapter from the Department for International Development White Paper 'Building Our Common Future' sets out the UK government's approach to building peaceful states and societies. It describes how DFID will make peace and statebuilding a development priority.

Author: DFID Source: DFID D., 2009, 'Building Peaceful States and Societies', in 'Eliminating World Poverty: Building our Common Future', pp. 69-88, DFID (Department for International Development), UK Size: 20 pages (1.5 MB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

Afghanistan's forthcoming elections in August 2009 and 2010 present a formidable challenge if they are to produce widely accepted and credible results. This paper, published by the International Crisis Group, reviews the steps necessary to foster public confidence in the presidential and provincial assembly elections. Pre-election focus must include strengthening security provision and electoral staff capacity and building consensus on how the political system can be made more functional and representative.

Author: International Crisis Group Source: International Crisis Group, 2009, 'Afghanistan's Election Challenges', Asia Report No.171, International Crisis Group Size: 40 pages (1.4 MB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

Sacrificing justice in the hope of securing peace is often projected as a more realistic route to ending conflict and bringing about stability than holding perpetrators to account. Yet this report draws on Human Rights Watch research to argue that the impact of justice is too often undervalued when weighing objectives in resolving a conflict. While there is no one formula suitable to all situations, a decision to ignore atrocities and to reinforce a culture of impunity may carry a high price.

Author: Human Rights Watch Source: Human Rights Watch, 2009, 'Selling Justice Short : Why Accountability Matters for Peace', Human Rights Watch Size: 134 pages (767 KB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

What types of military equipment should be covered by an International Arms Trade Treaty (ATT)? This report from Saferworld examines the national lists of military equipment that are currently controlled by a number of national governments. It reveals that more than 98.8 per cent of military equipment subject to international transfer is currently sourced from jurisdictions that use comprehensive national lists, and argues that these national lists - in effect a def facto international standard - should therefore form the basis for the scope of an ATT.

Author: Joseph Farha | Roy Isbister Source: Farha J., Isbister R., 2009, 'The Arms Trade Treaty and Military Equipment: The case for a comprehensive scope', Saferworld, London, United Kingdom Size: 18 pages (426 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How can European Union (EU) and Member State policymakers improve the impact of their security-related programming? What are the challenges that prevent policy from being implemented and what are the strategies that might ensure success? This paper from the Initiative for Peacebuilding (IfP) focuses on security sector reform (SSR) programmes. It shows that security-building efforts that succeed are grounded in effective national political processes and backed up by robust diplomatic dialogue between donors and recipient states. Security-building programmes fail if they focus on technical responses when the political conditions for progress at the operational level are absent. It finally makes a number of observations and recommendations to enhance the people-centred dimension of SSR and other security-building programmes.

Author: Sebastien Babaud | Robert Parker Source: Babaud S., Giarmana V., Parker R., Rynn S., 2009, 'Responding to people's security needs: Improving the impact of EU programming', Initiative for Peacebuilding, London, United Kingdom Size: 24 pages (340KB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How have African states responded to proposals to establish common international standards to regulate the legal arms trade? What concerns do they have about an Arms Trade Treaty (ATT)? This paper from the Institute for Security Studies discusses the views of African countries on an ATT. It argues that African states have for the most part shown considerable support for an ATT. However, a number of African states have reservations about an ATT, which need to be addressed.

Author: Dominique Dye Source: Dye D., 2009, 'Africa and an arms trade treaty', Institute for Security Studies (ISS) (Pretoria), Pretoria Size: 12 pages (240 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

What progress have the Great Lakes Region and the Horn of Africa made in implementing the Nairobi Protocol on small arms and light weapons (SALW)? What challenges do states in the region face in controlling the flow of SALW? This paper from the Institute for Security Studies examines the control of SALW in the Great Lakes Region and the Horn of Africa. It finds that states in the region have made significant efforts towards cooperating to combat the proliferation of SALW. However, measurable concrete implementation of the Nairobi Protocol has yet to take place at the national level.

Author: Dominique Dye Source: Dye D., 2009, 'Arms control in a rough neighbourhood: The case of the Great Lakes Region and the Horn of Africa', Institute for Security Studies (ISS) (Pretoria) Size: 16 pages (1.19 MB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How can the states of South Asia cooperate more effectively on counterterrorism? What role can the United Nations play in facilitating such cooperation? Focusing on the role of the UN, this paper from the International Peace Institute explores ways to strengthen regional cooperation on counterterrorism in South Asia. It argues that South Asia lacks a meaningful regional framework to facilitate the cooperation necessary to respond to and prevent terrorist acts. The UN, however, is well-placed to stimulate greater regional cooperation.

Author: Eric Rosand | Naureen Chowdhury Fink Source: Rosand E., Fink N.C., Ipe J., 2009, 'Countering Terrorism in South Asia: Strengthening Multilateral Engagement', International Peace Institute, New York Size: 36 pages (546 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How can the countries of West Africa improve their security environment? This paper from the International Peace Institute looks at West Africa's daunting security challenges. It argues that with the region's weak internal capacities and its peripheral status in the global market, the prognosis appears grim. However, through properly coordinated and calibrated measures aimed at incrementally strengthening democratic institutions, expanding infrastructure and creatively transforming other negative indicators, the security environment could significantly improve in the coming years.

Author: Abdel-Fatau Musah Source: Musah A., 2009, 'West Africa: Governance and Security in a Changing Region', Africa Program Working Paper Series, International Peace Institute, New York Size: 32 pages (1MB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

While Afghanistan has made progress in statebuilding, economic growth and human development, these positive signs have not stemmed the rising tide of insecurity in the country. This paper, published by The Center for International Governance Innovation (CIGI), reviews and analyses recent development and trends in Afghanistan's security sector reform (SSR). Despite an infusion of resources and an acceleration of international programming, Afghanistan's increasingly adverse security environment highlights continuing problems of corruption, clientelism and lack of coordiantion among the international donor community.

Author: Mark Sedra (ed) Source: Sedra M. (ed), 2009, 'Security Sector Reform Monitor: Afghanistan', Centre for International Governance Innovation (CIGI) Size: 12 pages (1.7 MB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

While a normative framework for security sector reform (SSR) has been well established, it has not been fully applied in practice and translated into effective programming. This report, published by the Center for International Governance Innovation (CIGI), summarises the main findings of an e-Conference discussion of unresolved SSR challenges. A new SSR research agenda needs to be launched in order to create an implementation framework more attuned to contemporary issues and challenges.

Author: Mark Sedra Source: Sedra M., 2009, 'The Future of Security Sector Reform', Centre for International Governance Innovation (CIGI) Size: 12 pages (648 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How can the British Government increase the effectiveness of conflict related policing missions? This study of conflict related international policing from the British Government's Foreign and Commonwealth Office focuses on the key capacity gaps facing the policing elements of international missions. The study finds that the quality of officers deployed - their ability to effectively carry out their roles - is a key capacity gap.

Author: FCO Source: FCO, 2009, 'Review of Conflict Related International Policing', Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO), London, United Kingdom Size: 46 pages (420 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

The enduring presence of warlords and the influence of their international supporters are inadequately addressed by current post-conflict state building practices. This paper, published by The Round Table, discusses aspects of an east Congo rebel movement to illustrate some of the challenges warlordism poses to statebuilding. The international reluctance to recognise the importance of multiple sovereignties in statebuilding, including warlords and neighbouring states, suggests attempts to create a functioning empirical state after conflict will remain deficient.

Author: Danielle Beswick Source: Beswick D., 2009, 'The Challenge of Warlordism to Post-Conflict State-Building: The Case of Laurent Nkunda in Eastern Congo', The Round Table - The Commonwealth Journal of International Affairs: Volume 98, Issue 402, pp.333-346 Size: 15 pages ()
Expanded document summary and link to full article

Nepal's peace process, which has always been predicated on a fragile political consensus, is in danger of collapse. This paper, published by the International Crisis Group, discusses political and regional factors that threaten the 2006 peace settlement that ended the ten-year civil war. Averting a return to conflict requires cooperation between parties to address their differences, and international backing of the process, including a decisive lead from India.

Author: International Crisis Group Source: International Crisis Group, 2009, 'Nepal's Future: In Whose Hands?', Asia Report No. 173, International Crisis Group Size: 53 pages (1.33 MB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

What progress has the Afghan National Army (ANA) made in terms of manpower, infrastructure and equipment, training, operational proficiency and public perceptions? What challenges still remain in rebuilding the ANA? This report from the RAND Corporation offers an assessment of the progress of the ANA to date. It argues that the ANA remains a work in progress, but is an indispensable part of the ultimate security of Afghanistan.

Author: Obaid Younossi | Peter Dahl Thruelsen Source: Younossi O., Thruelsen P.D., Vaccaro J., Sollinger J.M., Grady B., 2009, 'The Long March: Building an Afghan National Army', RAND Corporation Size: 85 pages (392 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

What is the security situation in Afghanistan and Pakistan? What strategy should the US and its allies adopt in these countries and how will they know if it is succeeding? This paper from the Center for a New American Security assesses the situation in Pakistan and Afghanistan, making operational recommendations for the US and its allies. It argues that as of mid-2009, the situation in both countries is dire and getting worse. The US and its allies should adopt an 'ink blot' counterinsurgency strategy, prioritising protection of the population while setting the stage for strengthening state institutions.

Author: Andrew M. Exum | Nathaniel C. Fick Source: Exum A.M., Fick N.C., Humayun A.A., 2009, 'Triage: The Next Twelve Months in Afghanistan and Pakistan', Center for a New American Security Size: 36 pages (1.46 MB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How do armed groups develop? This article from Contemporary Security Policy investigates the formation of armed groups using the concept of figuration, which emphasises the interdependence of individuals. There are three main ways by which armed groups come into being: in response to violent repression, through exclusion from the ruling class and when government-created informal armed forces become free from state control. These mechanisms provide insights into the conditions under which armed groups are likely to form and whether they become institutionalised.

Author: Klaus Schlichte Source: Schlichte, K., 2009, 'With the State against the State? The Formation of Armed Groups ', Contemporary Security Policy, vol. 30, no. 2, pp. 246 - 264 Size: 20 pages (176 KB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

Bhutan recently ended direct rule by its king and an elected government has ruled the country for a year. What factors led to the transition, and what has been the effect of democracy on issues such as the economy, human rights and corruption? This book, published by the Association of Press Freedom Activists (APFA-Bhutan), argues that the king was compelled to transfer power and did not take the decision willingly. It highlights the economic growth the country has undergone but also the lack of improvements in the human rights situation.

Author: I. P. Adhikari (ed.) Source: Adhikari I.P. (ed.), 2009, 'Torrefy of Democratic Value: commenting on budding democracy of Bhutan', Association of Press Freedom Activists (APFA-Bhutan), Bhutan Size: 101 pages (1.2MB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

Questions about peace and security remain critical both to national decision-makers and to the lives of ordinary people in Nepal. This report, by Interdisciplinary Analysts and Saferworld, analyses changing public attitudes to community safety and human security in the country. It is the second in a series of surveys that will track public perceptions of security over time. It concludes that most Nepalis still feel safer than before the protests in 2006 that led to the end of the country's long-running civil conflict. Nepalis see security both in terms of crime and violence and also in terms of socio-economic development.

Author: Interdisciplinary Analysts | Saferworld Source: Analysts I., Saferworld S., 2009, 'On track for improved security? A survey tracking changing perceptions of public safety, security and justice provision in Nepal', Saferworld Size: 66 pages (1.7 MB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

What progress has recently been made in Nepal's peace process? This report, by the United Nations Secretary General, reviews progress since January 2009 and gives specific consideration to the implementation of the mandate of the United Nations Mission in Nepal (UNMIN). It highlights the progress made on the constitution drafting process and the reintegration of Maoist army personnel. However, it notes with concern the continued culture of impunity with regards to human rights abuses committed during and since the end of the conflict.

Author: UN Secretary General Source: UN Secretary General, 2009, 'Report of the Secretary-General on the request of Nepal for United Nations assistance in support of its peace process', United Nations, S/2009/221 Size: 15 pages (208kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How can the business community contribute to Post-Conflict economic recovery in Nepal? This paper is one in a series on strengthening the economic dimensions of peacebuilding published by International Alert. Strengthening relationships among members of the business community and employing a conflict sensitive approach to reconstruction will be instrumental for peaceful economic recovery in Nepal.

Author: Lindsay Alexander | Canan Gündüz Source: International Alert, 2009, 'What role for business in "post-conflict" economic recovery? Perspectives from Nepal', International Alert Size: 60 pages (410kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

Despite successful elections and a lasting military ceasefire, Nepal's peace process is facing its most severe tests yet. This report, published by International Crisis Group, argues that a number of major issues remain unresolved. There is little unity of effort amongst the governing coalition led by the Maoists, but the democratic alternatives are alarmingly weak. The parties need to rebuild consensus on the way forward or face a public backlash. International supporters of Nepal must target assistance and political pressure to encourage the parties to face the threats to peace.

Author: International Crisis Group Source: International Crisis Group , 2009, 'Nepal's Faltering Peace Process', International Crisis Group, Asia Report No 163 Size: 45 pages (964 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

Are civil-military relations nearing a crisis point in post conflict Nepal? This insight piece published by the Institute of South Asian Studies explores this question by considering the recent disagreements between the Maoist government and the nepal army leaders. The Maoist government's poor handling of their decision to sack defiant Nepal Army leader, General Katawal reveals a weak and politically immature leadership. By allowing the Nepal Army to disregard the mandate of the civilian authority, the major political powers in Nepal risk permanently damaging the peace and democratisation processes.

Author: SD Muni Source: Muni S., 2009, 'Nepal in Crisis', Institute of South Asian Studies, ISAS Insights No. 67, Singapore Size: 7 pages ()
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How does China's military and security relationship with Pakistan effect regional stability? The Heritage Foundation's article explores these issues in her testimony to the US-China Economic and Security Review Commission of 20 May 2009. Until recently, China and Pakistan have cultivated a strong military and security relationship. However, recent events between the two countries mean that US policymakers may find more opportunities to work with China to increase regional stability in South Asia.

Author: Lisa Curtis Source: Curtis L., 2009, 'China's military and security relationship with Pakistan', The Heritage Foundation, Washington DC Size: pages ()
Expanded document summary and link to full article

The connection between community security and Disarmament, Demobilisation and Reintegration (DDR), is largely omitted in current policy and is unexplored in both academic and policy literature. This report, by the Peace Security and Development Network, reviews the existing literature on this link and identifies a number of weaknesses in DDR processes that stem from a lack of focus on community security. Local actors have limited influence on donors and national governments, which limits the possibilities for DDR programmes to reinforce community security arrangements, and vice versa.

Author: Rens Willems | Willemijn Verkoren Source: Willems R., Verkoren W., Derks M., Kleingeld J., Frerks G., Rouw H., 2009, 'Security Promotion in Fragile States: Can Local Meet National?', Peace, Security & Development (PSD) Network Size: 142 pages (1.1 MB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

What threat do the Taliban and al-Qaeda pose to Pakistan's nuclear weapons and material? What hope is there for reducing nuclear risk within Pakistan? This article from YaleGlobal Online outlines the danger that the Taliban and Al-Qaeda pose to Pakistan's nuclear assets. It argues that, given the global risks from nuclear material falling into the hands of the Taliban or al-Qaeda, winning against Pakistan's insurgents is critical. Hope for reducing nuclear risks within Pakistan rest largely on the Pakistani government's success on the battlefield.

Author: Leonard Spector Source: Spector L., 2009, 'Pakistan, Taliban and Global Security - Part I', YaleGlobal Online, Yale Center for the Study of Globalization Size: pages ()
Expanded document summary and link to full article

What are the implications of the Taliban insurgency in Pakistan for India and for the US-India relationship? How should the US and India respond to the situation in Pakistan? This article from YaleGlobal Online looks at how the US can cooperate with India to prepare for and respond to instability in Pakistan. It argues that the effect of the evolving situation in Pakistan has been to re-link India with Pakistan in US relations. The US and India need to hold intimate conversations on how to deal with Pakistan if the situation worsens.

Author: Robert D. Blackwill | YaleGlobal Online Source: Blackwill R.D., 2009, 'Pakistan, Taliban and Global Security - Part II', YaleGlobal Online, Yale Center for the Study of Globalization Size: pages ()
Expanded document summary and link to full article

Air transportation has played a key role in fuelling the war economies that have devastated much of Africa in recent decades. This article, by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, outlines the background to this problem, highlights how international action can be used to control destabilising or illicit commodity flows, and makes four specific recommendations. The article focuses on the important role European Union member states can play in, for example, denying contracts to companies involved in such activities.

Author: Hugh Griffiths | Mark Bromley Source: Griffiths H., Bromley M., 2009, 'Air Transport and Destabilizing Commodity Flows', SIPRI Policy Paper no. 24, Stockholm International Peace Research Institute Size: 74 pages (3.1 mB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How can small arms and light weapons (SALW) proliferation be controlled and thus their usage reduced when they are so easily produced, concealed and transferred? This study by the International Peace Institute (IPI) analyses why actions must be taken and what these actions should be in order to reduce SALW proliferation and usage. It argues that a more strategic response from multilateral organisations and a norm-setting practical approach are necessary.

Author: International Peace Institute Source: International Peace Institute, 2009, 'Small Arms and Light Weapons', IPI Blue Paper no. 5, Task Forces on Strengthening Multilateral Security Capacity, New York: International Peace Institute Size: 68 pages (588kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

Are early warning and response systems prepared for the conflicts of the future? This report from the OECD reviews recent literature on early warning and response to assess their value and their role in the prevention of violent conflict and for peacebuilding. It concludes that early warning and response systems require further support to ensure their future relevance.

Author: David Nyheim Source: Nyheim, D., 2009, 'Preventing Violence, War and State Collapse: The Future of Conflict Early Warning and Response ', Development Co-operation Directorate - Policy Division, Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), Paris Size: 137 pages (3.48 MB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

What role should security sector reform play in Zimbabwe's renaissance? This paper, published by the Royal United Services Institute, argues that security sector reform (SSR) must be a fundamental component in Zimbabwe's stabilisation and reconstruction, and suggests ways to achieve this. Zimbabwe's economy has revived since the establishment of the Government of National Unity (GNU) in February 2009. However, developments in the security sector will dictate whether the nation's recovery is durable or temporary.

Author: Knox Chitiyo Source: Chitiyo K., 2009, 'Making the case for security sector reform in Zimbabwe', Occasional Paper, Royal United Services Institute (RUSI), London, United Kingdom Size: 61 pages (1.5 MB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How does development cooperation contribute to peacebuilding? This chapter from the Handbook of Conflict Analysis and Resolution examines connections between conflict, security, peace and development. It summarises: (a) research debates about the causes of armed conflict; (b) discourse in the development community on conflict and peace and (c) the influence of these debates and discourses on development cooperation in conflict-affected contexts. Development policies should be an integral part of the peacebuilding agenda. But transfer from research to policy has largely ignored the complexity of development in conflict situations and the contribution of development to peacebuilding.

Author: Thania Paffenholz Source: Paffenholz, T., 2009, 'Understanding the Conflict-Development Nexus and the Contribution of Development Cooperation to 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. 272-285 Size: 12 pages (4.1 MB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How can the religious texts, values and beliefs used to incite conflict be harnessed to promote peace-building and reconciliation? What contributions can faith-based actors make to conflict resolution? This chapter from the SAGE Handbook of Conflict Resolution examines the ways in which religion can be used to inspire both war and peace. The revival of religiously motivated conflicts, and the increasing involvement of religious actors in resolving them, requires understanding of their dynamics.

Author: S. A. Kadayifci-Orellana Source: Kadayifci-Orellana, S. A., 2009, 'Ethno-Religious Conflicts: Exploring the Role of Religion in Conflict Resolution', in The SAGE Handbook of Conflict Resolution, eds., J. Bercovitch, V. Kremenyuk, and I. W. Zartman, SAGE, London, pp. 264-280 Size: 18 pages ()
Expanded document summary and link to full article

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)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

What role does traditional justice play in dealing with legacies of human rights abuses? How can interpersonal and community-based practices interrelate with state-organised and internationally sponsored forms of retributive justice and truth telling? This International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA) report provides a comparative analysis of traditional justice mechanisms in Rwanda, Sierra Leone, Mozambique, Uganda and Burundi. Most of the countries studied combine traditional justice and reconciliation instruments with other transitional justice strategies.

Author: Luc Huyse Source: Huyse, L., 2008, 'Introduction: Tradition-based Approaches in Peacemaking, Transitional Justice and Reconciliation Policies' in eds. Huyse, L. and Salter, M., Traditional Justice and Reconciliation after Violent Conflict: Learning from African Experiences, International IDEA, Stockholm, pp. 1-22 Size: 224 pages (786 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

What are the legal and practical constraints to justice and reconciliation in Northern Uganda? What are the next steps in addressing traditional justice challenges? This briefing by the United States Institute of Peace (USIP) provides a background of the conflict and peace process, analyses justice priorities and recommends key elements of a comprehensive justice plan. The recent accord between the Lords Resistance Army (LRA) and the Ugandan government provides for national prosecution of senior LRA commanders and traditional justice for lower level perpetrators. A number of gaps in the justice framework need to be addressed, such as the capacities of national and traditional justice systems, issues around amnesty and reparations.

Author: Scott Worden Source: Wordem, S., 2008, 'The Justice Dilemma in Uganda', United States Institute of Peace, Washington, D.C. Size: 13 pages (206 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

The Tswalu Protocol recognises the ad hoc nature of international responses to armed conflict and state failure. This Brenthurst Foundation and the Danish International Development Agency (Danida) publication, instead of simply calling for more coordination, offers a set of principles and guidelines that future peacebuilders can use to help offset the inherent limitations of any multilateral operation.

Author: Greg Mills Source: Mills, G. et al, 2008, 'The Tswalu Protocol: Principles and Guidelines for Peace-Building Missions', The Brenthurst Foundation and the Danish International Development Agency (Danida). Size: 9 pages (63 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

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)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

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)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How can civilians be protected after conflict? What challenges does Protection of Civilians (PoC) pose? This report from the Norwegian Institute of International Affairs focuses on the roles of different institutions in the security sector. While there is a new awareness of protection issues in the international community, good intentions have not always led to the security and peace desired. There is a critical need for more research on providing effective protection.

Author: Andreas Vogt | Benjamin de Carvalho Source: Vogt, A, de Carvalho, B, Hojem, P, Glad, M, 2008 'The Protection of Civilians and the post-conflict security sector - A conceptual and historical overview', Norwegian Institute of International Affairs, NUPI Report, Security in Practice no. 8 A Publication in the NUPI Series on Security in Practice Size: 2 pages (40.5kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

What are the major challenges in demilitarising militias in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)? This paper for the African Security Review analyses the militias currently active in North and South Kivu (the Kivus), in the eastern DRC. The war in DRC officially ended in 2003 and a fragile peace has been established. However, the Kivu regions of the east are still plagued by endemic violence. New militias have appeared outside the original peace agreement. The international community must support the DRC in containing these militias, and be more proactive in preventing illegal arms trafficking into the DRC.

Author: Monika Thakur Source: Thakur, M., 2008, 'Demilitarising militias in the Kivus (eastern Democratic Republic of Congo)', African Security Review Vol 17 No 1, pp.52-67, Institute for Security Studies, Praetoria, South Africa Size: 16 pages (504 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

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)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

What role will the EU play in Kosovo's security sector reform (SSR)? What challenges does the EU-led presence face? This paper from the European Security Review takes Kosovo as a test case for the EU in striving for a comprehensive approach to SSR. A complex history and political background, ethnic divides and widespread corruption all pose challenges. In learning from experience and continuing present efforts, the EU must take up its responsibilities as a global actor in crisis management.

Author: Sophie Dagand Source: Dagand, S., 2008, 'The Prospects for a Future Kosovo: The Role of Security Sector Reform', European Security Review no.38, ISIS-Europe, Brussels Size: 2 pages (40kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

What are the negative impacts of the illicit trade in small arms on security, human rights, and socio-economic development? How can governments and international agencies stem the uncontrolled proliferation of small arms? This report of the Secretary-General for the United Nations Security Council discusses these issues. Small arms and light weapons are the primary weapons used in contemporary conflicts. More human rights abuses are committed with them than any other weapon. Measurable goals for reducing armed conflict, better cooperation among national authorities and between international agencies, and the destruction of surplus ammunition are among the report's recommendations.

Author: UN Secretary General Source: UNSG (2008) 'Report of the United Nations Secretary General on Small Arms' (S/2008/258), New York Size: 19 pages (104 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

Is the strategy of integrating former rebels into a new national army the way to sustain peace agreements? This study, by Yale University, provides the first systematic study of rebel-military integration agreements. It analyses the conditions under which such agreements can be reached and implemented, and considers if and how such agreements can help build peace. It suggests that rebel-military integration has not been an effective peacebuilding mechanism, but this is often due to poor implementation of the agreements.

Author: Katherine Glassmyer | Nicholas Sambanis Source: Sambanis, N. and Glassmyer, K., 2008, 'Rebel-Military Integration and Civil War Termination', Journal of Peace Research, vol. 45, no. 3, pp. 365-384 Size: 21 pages ()
Expanded document summary and link to full article

Why are measures to promote peace in Afghanistan not succeeding? A significant reason is that in a fractured, impoverished society, there is no effective strategy to help Afghans deal with disputes peacefully. This Oxfam International Research Report calls for greater donor support for NGOs engaged in community peacebuilding and for the development of a national strategy. This could be realised by convening a national conference, attended by NGOs and experts from Afghanistan and overseas, government officials, religious leaders and United Nations (UN) representatives.

Author: Matt Waldman Source: Waldman, M., 2008, 'Community Peacebuilding in Afghanistan: The Case for a National Strategy', Oxfam, Oxford Size: 2 pages ()
Expanded document summary and link to full article

After almost a decade marked by violence in Zimbabwe, should there be a formal and public addressing of past human rights abuses? How will this be implemented? This Institute for Security Studies paper argues that Zimbabwe's particular experiences necessitate a national truth commission. Transitional justice is a core political issue now, not simply a collateral legal or moral one to be left until later.

Author: Max du Plessis | Jolyon Ford Source: du Plessis, M. & Ford, J., 2008, 'Justice and peace in a new Zimbabwe: Transitional justice options', ISS Paper 164, Praetoria, South Africa Size: 20 pages (263kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How does Colombia's Justice and Peace Law balance the needs for peace and justice? To what extent does the paramilitary demobilisation process meet international standards for justice, truth and reparations? This paper from the Fundación para les Relaciones Internacionales y el Diálogo Exterior examines Colombia's Justice and Peace Law in relation to justice, truth and reparation. It argues that while the law uses the language of human rights and justice, it is lacking in mechanisms to put these principles into practice.

Author: Felipe Gómez Isa Source: Gómez Isa, F., 2008, 'Paramilitary Demobilisation in Colombia: Between Peace and Justice', FRIDE Working Paper 57, Madrid, Spain Size: 28 pages (387 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How should disarmament, demobilisation and reintegration (DDR) programmes be implemented? This School for a Culture of Peace report argues that DDR should be seen less as a technical procedure and more as a process dependent on the context of where it is implemented. The paper therefore aims to draw lessons from a comparative analysis of DDR programmes in 19 countries.

Author: Albert Caramés | Eneko Sanz Source: Caramés, A. & Sanz, E. (2008) 'DDR 2008: Analysis of Disarmament, Demobilisation and Reintegration (DDR) programmes in the World during 2007', School for a Culture of Peace, Autonomous University of Barcelona, UAB, Spain. Size: 165 pages (1.3 MB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How successful has the US's The New Way Forward strategy been in helping Iraq achieve key security, legislative and economic goals? This US Government Accountability Office report measures progress against key aims and argues that while the US has made some progress, these advances are fragile. Unmet goals and challenges remain and as the New Way Forward and the military surge end in July 2008, an updated strategy is needed.

Author: Joseph A. Christoff Source: US Government Accountability Office, 2008, 'Securing stabilizing and rebuilding Iraq', United States Government Accountability Office, GAO-08-837, USA Size: 94 pages (3.82MB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How have integrated approaches to disarmament, demobilisation and reintegration (DDR) been applied in the case of Sudan? Despite significant recent progress, DDR cannot be described as a total success. This Saferworld report reviews the design and implementation of the first phase of DDR programming in Sudan from 2005 until the end of 2007. Much further thought and practical guidance is required on DDR if further programmes are to demonstrate more positive results.

Author: Sarah Preston | Henry Smith Source: Kefford, S., Preston, S. & Smith, H., 2008, 'Developing integrated approaches to post-conflict security and recovery: A case study of integrated DDR in Sudan', Saferworld, London, UK Size: 36 pages (455kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How much progress has been made with security sector reform (SSR) in Liberia? This Strategic Studies Institute paper examines SSR in Liberia and argues that while the United Nations (UN) and the United States (US) have made a start with police and military reform, they have not done nearly enough. The UN, US, as well as other significant donor partners, need to stay the course with Liberia. SSR is a long-term process, not an ephemeral happening.

Author: Mark Malan Source: Malan, M, 2008, 'Security Sector Reform in Liberia: Mixed Results from Humble Beginnings', Strategic Studies Institute, U.S. Army War College, Pennsylvania Size: 101 pages (375 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

What is the humanitarian impact of cluster munitions on civilian populations? How does cluster munition contamination affect local economies? This report from United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research highlights how post-conflict recovery and development processes can be impeded by cluster munition contamination. It shows how different groups in a population are affected physically and psychologically. The problems caused by the contamination vary according to prevailing socio-economic conditions. Poverty adds to the difficulty of trying to address the threat of the contamination effectively.

Author: United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research (UNIDIR) Source: UNIDR, 2008, 'The Humanitarian Impact of Cluster Munitions', United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research (UNIDIR) Size: 81 pages (364KB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

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 ()
Expanded document summary and link to full article

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 ()
Expanded document summary and link to full article

The violent April 2008 protests against the high cost of living underscored the continued fragility of Haiti's security situation and the need for rapid progress in security sector reform (SSR). This International Crisis Group report examines Haiti's security sector and argues that stability lies in expediting and concluding reforms to the police and justice sector, and improving cross-border cooperation with it neighbours. These challenges are all the more urgent, as they come at a time when Haiti is struggling with severe hurricane devastation.

Author: International Crisis Group Source: International Crisis Group, 2008, 'Reforming Haiti's Security Sector', Latin America/Caribbean Report N°28, 18 September 2008 , International Crisis Group, Port-au-Prince/Brussels Size: 41 pages (1.12MB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

Security sector reform (SSR) remains an unmet challenge for the United Nations and the international community, despite the growing demand for it in peacekeeping missions around the world. What is the way forward? This study, by the United States Institute of Peace, argues that if the United States plans to support good governance programmes in states emerging from hostilities, a comprehensive approach to SSR is needed. The United States also needs a formal inter-agency structure for managing SSR programs.

Author: Sean Mcfate Source: McFate, S., 2008, 'Securing the Future: A Primer on Security Sector Reform in Conflict Countries', United States Institute of Peace, Special Report 209, Washington DC Size: 20 pages (308 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

What effect has the proliferation of small arms and light weapons had on development in Latin America? This article, published in the NACLA Report on the Americas, reviews the multifaceted social consequences of the small arms trade. The trend of accelerating levels of crime and violence suggests that a broad-based and concerted gun control effort is needed. Gun violence is now holding back development in much of the region; fresh initiatives and the continued allocation of resources to tackling the trade will be needed to safeguard Latin America's future prosperity.

Author: Rachel Stohl | Doug Tuttle Source: Stohl, R. and Tuttle, D., 2008, 'The Small Arms Trade in Latin America', NACLA Report on the Americas, Vol. 41 No.2, March/April 2008 Size: 7 pages (576 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How can Security Sector Reform (SSR) in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) be improved? What SSR lessons can be learned from the DRC's United Nations Mission (MONUC)? This book chapter from the Geneva Centre for the Democratic Control of Armed Forces (DCAF) finds that the UN has been slow to address SSR comprehensively in the DRC, but has been hampered by the complex political and security context and the virtual collapse of the state. SSR must take place at different levels simultaneously, together with other reform processes.

Author: Nicola Dahrendorf Source: Mobekk, E., 2008, 'MONUC and the Relevance of Coherent Mandates: The Case of the DRC' in Security Sector Reform and UN Integrated Missions: Experience from Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Haiti, and Kosovo, eds. H. Hänggi & V. Scherrer DCAF, Geneva, Switzerland, pp. 113-168 Size: 38 pages ()
Expanded document summary and link to full article

Peacekeeping in Lebanon depends on a sound political base, a well-defined mandate and objectives as well as the cooperation of the parties concerned. However, in discussions about the international force for Lebanon in 2006, these issues were overlooked. Finding a quick solution became the overriding consideration. This study, by the Irish Centre for Human Rights, argues that the current UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) has to overcome serious obstacles in order to achieve its mandate. These are linked to broader political and security issues that need immediate attention in order to resolve the problems confronting Lebanon as a whole.

Author: Dr Ray Murphy Source: Murphy, R., 2008, 'UN Peacekeeping in Lebanon a Case Study', International Relations and Security Network (ISN), Zurich Size: 16 pages (1MB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How can the security situation in Nigeria be improved? This study, by the Centre for Democracy and Development, analyses public security decision-making in Nigeria. It argues that the failure of public security decision-making to provide for the needs of the public demonstrates the limits of state-centred security decision-making. A more cooperative security, in which both public and non-public actors have clearly defined legal roles, would strengthen security institutions and provide a democratic framework for better security in Nigeria.

Author: Okechukwu Ibeanu | Abubakar Momoh Source: Ibeanu, O. and Momoh, A., 2008, 'State Responsiveness to Public Security Needs: The Politics of Security Decision-Making - Nigeria Country Study', CSDG Papers No. 14, King's College London Size: 78 pages (446KB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

Nigeria's police are brutal and corrupt despite recent reform plans. Does this mean that reforms don't raise policing standards and practices, even in a relatively democratic environment like Nigeria? This research from the University of Leeds analyses developments in the Nigerian Police since 2005. It argues that reform can change organisational structures and regulations but, without socio-political change, its effects tend to be superficial, localised and temporary. Rather than being incremental, police reforms follow a dialectical process where reform and resistance interact.

Author: Alice Hills Source: Hills, A., 2008, 'The Dialectic of Police Reform in Nigeria', Journal of Modern African Studies vol. 46, no.2, pp. 215-234 Size: 20 pages ()
Expanded document summary and link to full article

What lessons can be drawn from practical experiences of the reintegration phase (R-phase) of disarmament, demobilisation and reintegration (DDR) programmes? This paper from the Clingendael Institute maps key lessons learned and practical experiences from DDR processes, paying particular attention to reintegration. It emphasises that DDR is fundamentally political in character and should be seen as part of a broader integrated approach to reconstruction. The presence of economic alternatives is critical to the successful long-term reintegration of demobilised ex-combatants.

Author: Leontine Specker Source: Specker, L., 2008, 'The R-Phase of DDR processes: An Overview of Key Lessons Learned and Practical Experiences', Netherlands Institute of International Relations 'Clingendael' Conflict Research Unit Size: 48 pages (163 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How has security sector reform (SSR) proceeded in Guinea-Bissau, and what lessons can be done to move these efforts forward? This background paper, presented by the Peacebuilding Commission (PBC) Country-Specific Configuration on Guinea-Bissau, describes and analyses the current state of the defence, security, and justice sectors. Reform efforts have affected the armed forces, the police and state security intelligence services, paramilitary forces, justice institutions, security management and oversight bodies, and non-statutory security forces.

Author: www.un.org/peace/peacebuilding/index.shtml Source: UN Peacebuilding Commission, 2008, 'Background Paper on Security Sector Reform in Guinea-Bissau', Peacebuilding Commission Country-Specific Configuration on Guinea-Bissau - Thematic Discussion on Security Sector Reform and the Rule of Law, 18 June 2008 Size: 5 pages (97 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How successfully have recent reform plans strengthened the justice sector in Guinea-Bissau? This background paper, published by the Peacebuilding Commission (PBC) Country-Specific Configuration on Guinea-Bissau, analyses the efforts to create an independent judiciary and evaluates future challenges. With the sector unable to properly dispense justice, the average citizen of Guinea-Bissau today remains reliant on traditional justice mechanisms to resolve both interpersonal and community disputes.

Author: www.un.org/peace/peacebuilding/index.shtml Source: UN Peacebuilding Commission, 2008, 'Background Paper on Strengthening the Justice Sector', Peacebuilding Commission Country-Specific Configuration on Guinea-Bissau - Thematic Discussion on Drug Trafficking in Guinea-Bissau and Strengthening of the Justice Sector 28 May 2008 Size: 4 pages (36 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

What progress has Azerbaijan made in establishing an effective and accountable military? What are the challenges facing reform of Azerbaijan's defence sector? This policy briefing from the International Crisis Group examines management and reform of the defence sector in Azerbaijan. It finds that Azerbaijan's military requires deep reforms to make it less corrupt and personality driven, more transparent and better directed. So far there has been insufficient political will to increase democratic and civilian control or to stop using the army to serve elite interests.

Author: International Crisis Group Source: International Crisis Group, 2008, 'Azerbaijan: Defence Sector Management and Reform', Europe Briefing N°50 29 October 2008, Baku/Brussels Size: 20 pages (756 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

What are the key challenges facing the post-conflict reconstruction process in Liberia? This situation report, published by the Institute for Security Studies, demonstrates the progress towards peace and stability achieved since the Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA) of 2003. By articulating an appropriate response to the country's basic socio-economic needs, Liberian authorities are in a position to promote peaceful, sustainable development. Finally, four possible future scenarios for Liberia are projected and described, ranging from a consolidation of the peace process to renewed violence.

Author: David Zounmenou Source: Zounmenou, D., 2008, Managing Post-War Liberia: An Update, ISS Situation Report, Institute for Security Studies, Pretoria Size: 15 pages (185 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

What are the key obstacles to successful reintegration programmes in post-conflict countries? How can these obstacles be overcome? This report from the United States Institute of Peace makes broad recommendations based on an assessment of Colombia's 2003 disarmament, demobilisation and reintegration (DDR) programme for a major paramilitary group. It argues that reintegration programmes should be characterised by a justice mechanism seen as fair by all parties, and a flexible approach which allows adaption to local needs.

Author: Jonathan Morgenstein Source: Morgenstein, J., 2008, 'Consolidating Disarmament: Lessons from Colombia's Reintegration Program for Demobilized Paramilitaries', USIP, Special Report 217, Washington DC, USA Size: 16 pages (575 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

South-East Europe is a region stigmatised for its role in heroin trafficking, human trafficking, and other forms of organised crime. This report, by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), argues that the crime situation in the area is improving. Specifically, it suggests that the rise of organised crime in the Balkans was a direct result of past instability, but that the situation seems to be changing for the better. As the region stabilises and the rule of law is secured, the incentives and opportunities for criminality should further fade.

Author: UNODC Source: UNODC, 2008, 'Crime and its Impact on the Balkans and Affected Countries', United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, Vienna Size: 130 pages (3.4 MB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

What accounts for the failures of the UN justice mission in Kosovo and how can these mistakes be fixed? This report, published by Amnesty International, highlights seven years of failings by the UN Mission in Kosovo's (UNMIK) Department of Justice. Although the model of internationalising local courts by temporarily importing experienced jurists could work, the effort in Kosovo cannot serve as a model. By publicising the findings of its own internal review, UNMIK should begin to assess transparently its inadequate planning, oversight and implementation.

Author: Amnesty International Source: Amnesty International, 2008, 'Kosovo (Serbia): The Challenge to Fix a Failed UN Justice Mission', Amnesty International, London Size: 121 pages (716 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

This East European Politics and Societies article provides a detailed and informative account of the transitional justice process in Albania and examines the logic behind the initiation of the lustration process. In essence, Albania was largely unsuccessful in implementing a serious programme of transitional justice after the fall of communism in 1991. Transitional justice in Albania became highly politicised and was used by politicians for political gains.

Author: Robert C. Austin | Jonathan Ellison Source: Austin, R. C. and Ellison, J., 2008, 'Post-Communist Transitional Justice in Albania', East European Politics and Societies, vol. 22, no. 2, pp. 373-401 Size: 30 pages ()
Expanded document summary and link to full article

What impact have land tenure issues had on violent conflict in Kenya? This conference report, published by the African Centre for Technology Studies, argues that the status quo of land tenure in Kenya inevitably leads to violent outcomes. However, no single meta-narrative can explain the shifting nature of land conflicts in Kenya, or in Africa generally, with greed, grievances and other factors at play. Issues of ownership, access and use all feature in land tenure conflicts in Kenya, causing not only violence but also poverty and economic instability.

Author: Judi Wakhungu | Elvin Nyukuri Source: Wakhungu, J., Nyukuri, E. & Huggins, C., 2008, 'Land Tenure and Violent Conflict in Kenya', African Centre for Technology Studies, Consultative Conference Proceedings, Nairobi Size: 34 pages (2.1 MB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

What factors cause land-based conflicts to turn violent? This report, published by the Institute for Security Studies, analyses and traces the trajectory of a decade-long conflict in the Mount Elgon region of Kenya. A government land resettlement programme - intended primarily for squatters of the Mosop and Soy clans of the Sabaot ethnic group - fell apart under clan and ethnic tension. This report asserts the presence of a significant political dimension to the conflict. A sustainable and peaceful resolution will only result from a variety of processes undertaken in a spirit that is consultative, inclusive and transparent.

Author: Robert Romborah Simiyu Source: Simiyu, R., 2008, 'Militarisation of resource conflicts: The case of land-based conflict in the Mount Elgon region of Western Kenya', ISS Monograph No. 152, Institute for Security Studies, Pretoria Size: 92 pages (1.7 MB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

What were the dynamics of the post-election violence that erupted in Kenya in December 2007? This report, published by the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, analyses the underlying causes and alleged spontaneity of the violence. Region-specific dynamics played a crucial role, with three patterns of conflict emerging: spontaneous slum outbursts; premeditated land grabs; and retaliatory violence. Violations of economic and social rights, particularly in employment, environmental, health and housing issues, pre-dated the 2007 election and fuelled anger.

Author: United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Source: OHCHR, 2008, Report from OHCHR Fact-finding Mission to Kenya 6-28 February 2008, Report prepared for the United Nationas High Commissioner for Human Rights from OHCHR Fact-finding mission to Kenya, United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Geneva Size: 19 pages (132 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

Tanzania is a relatively new mining country. What has been the impact of mining on local communities? This study, by Chr. Michelsen Institute, argues that unclear land and mining rights, and conceptual differences in how land and mining rights are perceived, contribute to conflict in the country. There is a feeling among both communities and human rights groups that the government has betrayed ordinary people. The article initially outlines land legislation and mining policy in Tanzania. It then presents examples of recent conflicts, government initiatives to resolve them, and existing consultation and conciliation mechanisms that can be used.

Author: Siri Lange Source: Lange, S.,2008, 'Land Tenure and Mining in Tanzania',CMIReports, No. 2 Size: 44 pages (382 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

What are the main causes of human insecurity in eastern Africa? This research from Witwatersrand University analyses developments in Djibouti, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia, Sudan, Uganda and Tanzania. It argues that state fragility is the root cause of most conflicts in eastern Africa. Reviving structures that reduce the challenges to human livelihoods will involve a return to strong territorial order, national cohesion, economic viability and the building of regional institutions for security and prosperity.

Author: Gilbert M. Khadiagala Source: Khadiaghala, G.M., 2008, Eastern Africa: Security and the Legacy of Fragility, Africa Program Working Paper Series, International Peace Institute, New York Size: 28 pages (1.83MB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

What are the roots of conflict in the Greater Horn of Africa and who are the main rebel groups? This study from the Center for International Peace Operations analyses armed groups in Sudan, Chad, Central African Republic (CAR), Somalia, Ethiopia and Eritrea with regard to their social and ethnic background, their political and military relevance, as well as their leaders and the countries supporting them with arms and money. All the groups are informal unlike the well-organised guerilla movements of the Communist era, which makes the Horn an extremely volatile political environment.

Author: Gérard Prunier | Center for International Peace Operations Source: Prunier, G., 2008, 'Armed Movements in Sudan, Chad, Central African Republic, Somalia, Eritrea and Ethiopia', Analyse 02/08, Center for International Peace Operations, Berlin Size: 19 pages (176.27KB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

To what extent can traditional practices be used to end conflict in Uganda? This study suggests that the Acholi people of Uganda maintain their sophisticated cultural beliefs about the spirit world and their social order. These shape their perceptions of truth, justice, forgiveness and reconciliation, and they would like to use them for conflict resolution. There is a wealth of knowledge inherent in the traditional practices and culture of the Acholi, which offers credible principles for conflict management and harmonious living within the wider global society.

Author: James Ojera Latigo | International IDEA Source: Latigo, J.O., 2008, 'Northern Uganda: tradition-based practices in the Acholi region', in L. Huyse and M. Salter (eds), Traditional Justice and Reconciliation after Violent Conflict: Learning from African Experiences, International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance, Stockholm, pp. 85-122 Size: 27 pages (1MB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How can the threat of the Lord's Resistance Army (LRA ) in northern Uganda and the surrounding region be brought to an end? This paper by ENOUGH suggests the peace strategy must enable northern Uganda to consolidate its relative peace and address the threat that Kony - the leader of the LRA - poses to the region. It must develop leverage through military planning, press Kony to make a choice about his future and create a development and security strategy for displaced northern Ugandans to return, even in the absence of a peace deal.

Author: Julia Spiegel | John Prendergast Source: Spiegel, J. and Prendergast, J., 2008, A new peace strategy for Northern Uganda and the LRA: Advancing peace in northern Uganda, ENOUGH strategy paper, ENOUGH Project, International Crisis Group and the Center for American Progress Size: 9 pages (147.85KB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

The 2005 Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA) that ended Sudan's civil war is at risk in the state of Southern Kordofan. This International Crisis Group paper analyses growing frustrations among Arab and African tribes about CPA implementation and unresolved ethnic and administrative issues. Concrete ethnic integration and reform progress by the National Congress Party (NCP), Sudan People's Liberation Movement (SPLM), Southern Kordofan Government, United Nations Mission in Sudan (UNMIS) and donors is essential in order to avoid another Darfur conflict.

Author: International Crisis Group Source: International Crisis Group, 2008, 'Sudan's Southern Kordofan Problem: The Next Darfur?', International Crisis Group, Africa Report No.145, Brussels Size: 27 pages (1.20 MB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) needs to address past human rights atrocities in order to establish peace, security and respect for human rights in the future. This study, published by the University of California, Berkeley, reports results of a population survey in areas most affected by recent conflict in eastern DRC. The Congolese government and other national and international actors need to consult the population in order to set priorities for planning the future of the DRC.

Author: Patrick Vinck | Phuong Pham Source: Vinck P., Pham P., Shigekane S.B., 2008, 'Living with Fear: A Population-Based Survey on Attitudes about Peace, Justice, and Social Reconstruction in Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo', University of California - Berkeley, California, USA Size: 72 pages (713.28 KB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

The contributions of South Sudanese women associated with armed forces during the 22-year Sudanese civil war (1983-2005) remain unrecognised and undocumented. This brief, published by the Small Arms Survey, reviews women's involvement in the conflict and the lack of official recognition of women in post-conflict programmes. The Government of South Sudan (GoSS) and United Nations' agencies need to give women priority Demobilisation, Disarmament and Reintegration (DDR) treatment and full access to employment opportunities.

Author: Small Arms Survey Source: Small Arms Survey, 2008, 'No standing, few prospects: How peace is failing South Sudanese female combatants and WAAFG', Small Arms Survey, The Human Security Baseline Assessment, Sudan Issue Brief, No. 13, Geneva Size: 8 pages (329 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

Implementing Sudan's Joint Integrated Units (JIUs) mandated by the 2005 Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA) has proved to be an obstacle to the broader implementation of the CPA. This brief, published by the Small Arms Survey, discusses the current status of JIUs, challenges to their deployment and functionality and consequences to CPA implementation. Active and immediate international assistance and Sudanese government cooperation are required to improve the JIUs in the interest of improving adherence to the CPA.

Author: Small Arms Survey Source: Small Arms Survey, 2008, 'Neither 'joint' nor 'integrated': The Joint Integrated Units and the future of the CPA', The Human Security Baseline Assessment, Small Arms Survey, Sudan Issue Brief, No. 10, Geneva Size: 8 pages (260 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

The three-day war between Eritrea and Djibouti in 2008 is a reminder that Africa's sub-region remains one of the most unstable and conflict-prone in the world and lacks conditions for a workable peace and security order. This brief, published by the InterAfrica Group, assesses the nature and course of the conflict over borders and its links with peace and stability in the Horn of Africa. If allowed to continue, the Eritrea-Djibouti conflict could endanger strategic interests of many countries and the international war on terror.

Author: Medhane Tadesse Source: Tadesse, M. 2008, 'The Djibouti-Eritrea Conflict', Center for Dialogue on Humanitarian, Peace and Development Issues in the Horn of Africa, Briefing, InterAfrica Group Size: 14 pages (204 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How can the concept of the Rule of Law (RoL) be successfully integrated into UN peace operations? What lessons can be drawn from the United Nations Mission in Liberia? This article from the Journal of Security Sector Management argues that more work is needed to conceptualise and implement RoL, including the development of benchmarks to qualify and quantify substantial progress. A people-centred interpretation of RoL should be considered as alternatives and/or complemtary tools to state-centred approaches, for example as short-term or interim measures.

Author: Till Blume Source: Blume T., 2008, 'Implementing the Rule of Law in Integrated Missions: Security and Justice in the UN Mission in Liberia', Journal of Security Sector Management, Volume 6 Number 3, Shrivenham UK Size: 18 pages (294 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

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)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

Collaboration between the African Union (AU) and the United Nations (UN) is the best option for resolving the continent's human security dilemmas. This paper, published by the Dag Hammarskjöld Foundation, explores the UN-AU security architecture and difficulties that affect its ability to improve human security on the continent. While the UN and regional organisations such as the AU talk about security partnerships, many definitional issues call the nature of such partnerships into question.

Author: Kwesi Aning Source: Aning K., 2008, 'The UN and the African Union's security architecture: Defining an emerging partnership?', Dag Hammarskjöld Foundation, pp. 8-23, No. 5, Uppsala, Sweden Size: 16 pages (939.32 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How effective are outside efforts to bring security to African countries, particularly through the use of peacekeeping troops? This study from the German Institute of Global and Area Studies argues that a realistic assessment must include local perspectives on peacekeepers and their relations to other (state and non-state) actors in the security arena. Peacekeepers do harm, just as they do good; and they would profit from a more systematic evaluation of the local perception of their actions.

Author: Andreas Mehler Source: Mehler A., 2008, 'Positive, ambiguous or negative? Peacekeeping in the local security fabric', Dag Hammarskjöld Foundation, pp. 40-64, No.5, Uppsala, Sweden Size: 25 pages (1.04MB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

The response to the civil war in Darfur serves as a warning that division of labour of peacekeeping can have profound negative political implications. This paper, published by the Dag Hammarskjöld Foundation, discusses the United Nations (UN) and African Union (AU) relationship in response to the large-scale challenge of Darfur. The co-dependent relationship between the UN and the AU highlights the dangers of the UN relying on (sub)regional organisations that face even greater operational constraints than the UN itself.

Author: Linnea Bergholm Source: Bergholm L., 2008, 'The UN and the AU: a co-dependent relationship on matters of peace and security', Dag Hammarskjöld Foundation, pp. 24-39, No. 5, Uppsala, Sweden Size: 16 pages (1.37 MB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How has Kup Women for Peace (KWP), a community organisation in Papua New Guinea, contributed to reducing violence and ensuring free and fair elections? What progress has KWP made in changing attitudes about women and their roles in society in the Kup sub-district? This article from Gender & Development describes the work of KWP. It shows how in seven short years, KWP has gone from tribal peacebuilding to ensuring a free, fair and violence-free election in Kup.

Author: Rachael Hinton et al. | Yanny Guman Source: Hinton, R. et al, 2008, 'The Kup Women for Peace approach to peacebuilding: taking the lead in the Papua New Guinea national elections', Gender and Development, Vol. 16, No. 3, pp. 523 - 533 Size: 11 pages ()
Expanded document summary and link to full article

What role did the 2007 general elections in Sierra Leone play in the country's post-war recovery? This research from the Nordic Africa Institute and Copenhagen University shows how political parties strategically remobilised ex-combatants into security squads, both to protect themselves and to gather votes. It looks at the tactical motives behind ex-combatants' choice to join political campaigning. The 2007 elections strengthened the democratic process in Sierra Leone. However, democracy is still extremely fragile.

Author: Maya M. Christensen | Mats Utas Source: Christensen M.M. and Mats U., 2008, 'Mercenaries of democracy: The 'Politricks' of remobilized combatants in the 2007 general elections, Sierra Leone', African Affairs, Vol. 107, Issue 429, pp. 515-539 Size: 25 pages ()
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How does a rebel movement transform itself into the leading party of democratic opposition? What are the prospects of such a party? This Conflict, Security and Development publication examines the development of the Union for the Total Independence of Angola (UNITA) and its emergence as the leading opposition party.

Author: Alex Vines | Bereni Oruitemeka Source: Vines A. and Oruitemeka B., 2008, 'Bullets to ballots: The reintegration of UNITA in Angola', Conflict, Security and Development, Vol. 8, No. 2, pp. 241- 263 Size: 24 pages ()
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How successful has the United States (US) been in achieving political reintegration in Iraq? This study from Conflict, Security and Development examines US approaches to the political reintegration of irregular armed groups, from its initial policy vacuum to the informal reintegration seen during 2007 and 2008. It shows that the best attempt at reintegration has been the arrangements between US military units and Sunni groups since 2006. Yet, since these arrangements emerged without support from the central government, they cannot be considered reconciliation or even reintegration.

Author: David Ucko Source: Ucko D., 2008, 'Militias, tribes and insurgents: The challenge of political reintegration in Iraq', Conflict, Security and Development, Vol. 8, No. 3, pp. 341-373 Size: 34 pages ()
Expanded document summary and link to full article

Why did the façade of Afghan disarmament, demobilisation and reintegration (DDR) develop? How did the reality on the ground diverge from the bureaucratic process? What are the implications of such an approach? This Conflict, Security & Development paper examines the contradictions at the heart of DDR and successive Disbandment of Illegal Armed Groups in Afghanistan DIAG processes in Afghanistan, analysing the conflicts of interest and limited impacts.

Author: Antonio Giustozzi Source: Giustozzi A., 2008, 'Bureaucratic façade and political realities of disarmament and demobilisation in Afghanistan', Conflict, Security and Development, Vol. 8, No. 2, pp. 169 - 192 Size: 25 pages ()
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How can long-term peaceful political transformation of the Revolutionary United Front (RUF) in Sierra Leone be achieved? This study from King's College London argues that successful political reintegration does not simply mean political participation per se, but requires specific forms of political participation that reinforce the primacy of peaceful political interaction for affecting change. The study concludes that despite progress in many key areas, former fighters of the RUF have yet to be fully politically reintegrated.

Author: Kieran Mitton Source: Mitton K., 2008, 'Engaging disengagement: The political reintegration of Sierra Leone's Revolutionary United Front', Conflict, Security and Development, Vol. 8, No. 2, pp. 193-222 Size: 31 pages ()
Expanded document summary and link to full article

Comparative democratisation researchers need to analyse cautiously the complex intertwining of statebuilding, democratisation and war in each case of political transformation. This paper, published by Democratization, analyses the inter-connection of democratisation, statebuilding and war in Serbia and Croatia and how the international environment influenced these processes. Despite the international tendency to see states from a regional perspective, differences between Serbian and Croatian statebuilding have had major implications for their progress towards democratisation.

Author: Nenad Zakoek Source: Zakoek N., 2008, 'Democratization, State-building and War: The Cases of Serbia and Croatia ', Democratization, Vol. 15, No. 3, pp. 588 - 610 Size: 24 pages ()
Expanded document summary and link to full article

What is the UN Security Council's approach to transnational terrorism and WMD proliferation post 9/11? How are attitudes steered by the application of hierarchical and soft modes of governance? This Nordic International Studies Association study examines the modes of governance applied towards transnational terrorism and the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction to non-state actors. Particular attention is paid to the combination of the hierarchical 'command and punishment' approach and the soft 'cooperative' model.

Author: Monika Heupel Source: Heupel M., 2008, 'Combining Hierarchical and Soft Modes of Governance: The UN Security Council's Approach to Terrorism and Weapons of Mass Destruction Proliferation after 9/11', Cooperation and Conflict, Vol. 43, No.1, pp. 7-29. Size: 29 pages ()
Expanded document summary and link to full article

What role do Zimbabwe's security institutions play in the governance of Zimbabwe and the management of its economy? What part could they play in the transition to a post-Mugabe Zimbabwe? This background briefing from the Council on Foreign Relations outlines the role of Zimbabwe's security institutions. It finds that as Zimbabwe's economic crisis has deepened, President Robert Mugabe has ceded significant power to the country's security forces. However, experts are divided over whether the security sector can help to bring in a new government in Zimbabwe.

Author: Stephanie Hanson Source: Hanson S., 2008, 'Zimbabwe's Security Sector', Council on Foreign Relations Size: pages ()
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How have the government and the international community conducted security sector reform (SSR) in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)? Why has so little progress been made in reforming the DRC's security sector? This report from the Institute for Security Studies examines SSR in the DRC and its impact on security in the Kivu provinces. It finds that the lack of progress on SSR reveals a fundamental problem in international peacebuilding strategies, and a lack of coordination among donors. The lack of progress also both stems from and contributes to continuing violence in the eastern provinces.

Author: Hans Hoebeke | Henri Boshoff Source: Hoebeke H., Boshoff H., Vlassenroot K., 2008, 'Assessing Security Sector Reform and its Impact on the Kivu Provinces', Situation Report, Instutute for Security Studies Size: 11 pages (137 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How did the newly elected government of President Joseph Kabila respond to the 2006 presidential elections in the Democratic Republic of Congo? How did it act with respect to human rights and democracy in the two years following the election? This report from Human Rights Watch documents human rights abuses and political repression in Kinshasa and Bas Congo following the 2006 elections. It finds that the Kabila government is brutally restricting democratic space in the DRC.

Author: Human Rights Watch Source: 2008, '"We will crush you" - The Restriction of Political Space in the Democratic Republic of Congo ', Human Rights Watch Size: 100 pages (1.84 MB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How can mediators help to manage the impact of violence on peace processes? What steps must armed groups be prepared to take if they are serious about peaceful resolution of conflict? This publication from the Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue presents insights on security issues from individuals involved in peace negotiations in Colombia, Nagorno-Karabakh and northern Uganda.

Author: Cate Buchanan Source: Buchanan C., 2008, 'Negotiating Disarmament: Reflections on Guns, Fighters and Armed Violence in Peace Processes', Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue, Viewpoints, Volume 2, November 2008, Geneva, Switzerland Size: 34 pages (929 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How did negotiations to end El Salvador's civil war deal with disarmament, demobilisation and reintegration (DDR) and security sector reform (SSR)? What provisions did the peace agreement make for reducing the number of weapons in circulation and providing support to the victims of armed violence? This report from the Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue examines how El Salvador's peace negotiations addressed issues related to guns and armed violence.

Author: Cate Buchanan | Joaquín Chávez Source: Buchanan C. and Chávez J., 2008, 'Negotiating Disarmament: Guns and Violence in the El Salvador Peace Negotiations ', Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue, Country Study, Number 3, March 2008, Geneva, Switzerland Size: 46 pages (1 MB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How were security issues managed in the Burundi Peace Talks? What lessons are there for international mediators of other conflicts? Drawing on interviews with negotiators and advisors, this Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue report concludes that it is vital to balance political and technical expertise when addressing security issues and that the interconnectedness of security issues should be recognised.

Author: Richard Barltrop | Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue Source: Barltrop R., 2008, 'The Negotiation of Security Issues in the Burundi Peace Talks', Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue, Country Study, Number 1, March 2008, Geneva, Switzerland Size: 54 pages (1.6 MB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How did Sudan's Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA) deal with security issues? What lessons are there for international mediators assisting other peace processes? This Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue report finds that in Sudan the parties' lack of trust led to a deliberate avoidance of commitments related to security and weapons control. In this context, there were few opportunities for international mediators to broaden the scope of the negotiations.

Author: Richard Barltrop | Centre for Human Dialogue Source: Barltrop R., 2008, 'The Negotiation of Security Issues in Sudan's Comprehensive Peace Agreement', Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue, Negotiating Disarmament, Country Study, Number 2, March 2008, Geneva, Switzerland Size: 46 pages (1.2 MB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

What is the most effective way of tackling violence and weapons issues in peace processes? This Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue report consists of four articles which put forward recommendations on how to deal with such issues when negotiating a peace agreement. The importance of understanding the local context, ensuring sustainable reintegration and dealing with arms in civilian hands is stressed in several articles.

Author: Cate Buchanan Source: Buchanan C., 2008, 'Negotiating Disarmament: Strategies for Tackling Weapons and Violence in Peace Process', Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue, Viewpoints, Volume 1, March 2008, Geneva, Switzerland Size: 38 pages (1.3 MB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

Scientific methods and theories have been applied to warfare since the beginning of the modern era, argues this article from the Journal of International Affairs. As a result, military thinking has evolved in tandem with scientific thinking. Currently, scientific theories of chaos and complexity, or chaoplexity, are most influential in military affairs. These stress the role of networks and the unpredictability of war.

Author: Antoine Bousquet Source: Bousquet A., 2008, 'Chaoplexic warfare or the future of military organization', International Affairs, Volume 84, Issue 5, pp. 915-929 Size: 15 pages ()
Expanded document summary and link to full article

What is the 'rule of law' and how can it best be implemented in peace operations? This article from the journal International Peacekeeping reviews four publications on the rule of law in post-conflict situations. The books demonstrate that implementing the rule of law is more easily said than done. There is a need to systematise research and specify the conditions of success and failure in order to develop a more tangible policy framework.

Author: Till Blume Source: Blume T., 2008, 'Security, Justice and the Rule of Law in Peace Operations', International Peacekeeping, Volume 15, Issue 5, pp. 713-721 Size: 9 pages ()
Expanded document summary and link to full article

What are the objectives of reintegration and how are they achieved? How does the conceptualisation of reintegration translate into practice in disarmament, demobilisation and reintegration (DDR) programmes? This article from Global Governance draws on the case of Liberia to examine the concept and practice of reintegration in post-war societies. It argues that the meaning and use of reintegration, both as a concept and a practice, is overloaded and unclear. This contributes to problematic policy responses and impedes accountability.

Author: Kathleen M. Jennings Source: Jennings K.M., 2008, 'Unclear Ends, Unclear Means: Reintegration in Postwar Societies - The Case of Liberia', Global Governance, Volume 14, Issue 3, pp. 327-345 Size: 19 pages ()
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How should non-state armed groups (NSAGs) be engaged in disarmament as part of peace negotiations? How should disarmament be introduced, addressed and ultimately achieved? This article from the United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research (UNIDIR) sets out how disarmament should be dealt with in the different phases of negotiation with NSAGs. Disarmament is a particularly sensitive topic for NSAGs as giving up their weapons amounts to giving up their power. As a result, disarmament is often most effectively addressed through other topics or in parts.

Author: Julian Thomas Hottinger | UNIDIR Source: Hottinger J.T., 2008, 'Engaging non-state armed groups in disarmament', United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research (UNIDIR), Disarmament Forum, Number 1, pp. 27-36 Size: 10 pages (132 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

What role have civil society organisations (CSOs) played in conflict prevention in West Africa? What challenges do they face in playing a more effective role? This article from Disarmament Forum examines the various contributions that CSOs have made to conflict prevention in West Africa. It argues that effective conflict prevention requires effective partnerships between CSOs and national governments.

Author: Thelma Ekiyor | UNIDIR Source: Ekiyor T., 2008, 'The role of civil society in conflict prevention: West African experiences', United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research (UNIDIR), Disarmament Forum: The complex dynamics of small arms in West Africa, Number 4, pp. 27-34 pp. 27 - 34 Size: 8 pages (113 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

What factors facilitate and contribute to the transfer of different types of weapons, small arms and light weapons (SALW) in particular, to non-state armed groups (NSAGs)? How can the international community attempt to control these transfers? This article from Disarmament Forum examines the transfer of weapons to NSAGs. It describes how the post-Cold War security landscape and globalisation have enabled the transfer of arms to NSAGs.

Author: Chris Smith | UNIDIR Source: Smith C., 2008, 'Weapon transfers to non-state armed groups', United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research (UNIDIR), Disarmament Forum: Engaging non-state armed groups, Number 1, pp. 45 - 52 Size: 7 pages (117 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

What lessons can be learnt from West African initiatives to control small arms? How can these lessons be applied to the current international debate on an arms trade treaty? This United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research (UNIDIR) paper argues that the West African experience shows that an international arms trade treaty should address arms imports as well as exports and prohibit arms transfers to non-state actors.

Author: Cyriaque Pawoumotom Agnekethom Source: Agnekethom C.P., 2008, 'Political and institutional dynamics of the control of small arms and light weapons in West Africa', United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research (UNIDIR), Disarmament Forum - The complex dynamics of small arms in West Africa, Number 4, pp. 13 - 20 Size: 8 pages (104 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

What is the scale of small arms proliferation in West Africa? How do small arms and light weapons (SALW) arrive and circulate and what impact do they have on the sub-region? This article from Disarmament Forum looks at the transfer of SALW in West Africa. It argues that the uncontrolled movement of SALW in West Africa has exacerbated conflict, created a climate of insecurity and undermined development.

Author: Francis Langumba Keili | UNIDIR Source: Keili F.L., 2008, 'Small arms and light weapons transfer in West Africa: a stock-taking', United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research (UNIDIR), Disarmament Forum: The complex dynamics of small arms in West Africa, Number 4, pp. 5 - 12 Size: 7 pages (105 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

What security challenges does the UK face? What steps is the government taking in response to these challenges? The national security strategy from the UK Cabinet Office sets out how the government will address and manage the security challenges that the UK faces. It emphasises the integrated nature of the responses required to address a range of diverse but interdependent threats, risks and drivers of insecurity.

Author: UK Cabinet Office | www.cabinetoffice.gov.uk Source: UK Cabinet Office, 2008, 'The National Security Strategy of the United Kingdom: Security in an interdependent world', UK Cabinet Office, CM 7291. Size: 64 pages (980 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

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 ()
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How should children who participate in political violence be seen in terms of agency and competence? How do the experiences of young people in displacement camps contribute to their involvement in political violence? This article from Conflict, Security and Development examines the mobilisation of children for political violence in terms of the dynamics of displacement camps. It argues that curtailing children's involvement in political violence may require greater consideration of the political-economic processes that shape the lives of displaced young people.

Author: Jason Hart Source: Hart J., 2008, 'Displaced children's participation in political violence: Towards greater understanding of mobilisation', Conflict, Security and Development, Vol. 8, No. 3, pp. 277 - 293 Size: 17 pages ()
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How can civil society organisations working in conflict prevention and peacebuilding improve their interactions with the media? Why and when should they use the media? This paper from the Global Partnership for the Prevention of Armed Conflict argues that different types of media can bring about different types of change. Information programming can encourage cognitive change by increasing knowledge and framing public discussion. Entertainment programming and advertising encourage attitudinal change. The media rarely directly affects behaviour, but it influences attitudes and opinions that shape behaviour. Behavioural change happens through the cumulative impact of the media and other social institutions; an integrated strategy is important.

Author: Vladimir Bratic | Lisa Schirch Source: Bratic, V., and Schirch, L., 2008, 'Why and When to Use the Media for Conflict Prevention and Peacebuilding', GPPAC Issue Paper, Global Partnership for the Prevention of Armed Conflict Size: 34 pages (725KB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

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 ()
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How can policymakers use political economy and conflict-sensitive approaches to create and support an effective economic recovery strategy in northern Uganda? This first issue of Investing in Peace from International Alert analyses four districts in Northern Uganda and finds that policymakers and donors need to include substantial economic recovery initiatives as a part of the overall peacebuilding strategy.

Author: International Alert Source: International Alert, 2008, 'Building a Peace Economy in Northern Uganda: Conflict-sensitive Approaches to Recovery and Growth' Investing in Peace, Issue No. 1, International Alert, London Size: 60 pages (6.87 MB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How can the prevalence of weapons in Kosovo be reduced without further damaging fragile feelings of security among the population? This report by the Forum for Civic Initiatives and Saferworld looks at changing perceptions of civilian possession and prevalence of weapons. Because of sensitivities surrounding weapons possession, any initiatives to control or collect weapons should be tailored to specific community needs to maximise opportunities for peace and minimise potential drivers of conflict.

Author: Forum for Civic Initiatives | Saferworld Source: Forum for Civic Initiatives, Saferworld, 2008, 'Through the cross-hairs: A survey of changing attitudes towards small arms in Kosovo', Forum for Civic Initiatives (Kosovo) Size: 19 pages (682KB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How successful has Uganda been in implementing its commitments to the UN Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in All Its Aspects (UN PoA)? This study from Saferworld suggests that the Government of Uganda (GoU) has improved its controls on the international transfer of small arms and light weapons (SALW). The GoU has fulfilled some of its commitments under the UN PoA. Nonetheless, its enforcement of controls on the international transfer of SALW could be strengthened.

Author: Jacqueline Macalesher | Angus Urquhart Source: Macalesher J., Urquhart A., 2008, 'Uganda and international small arms transfers: Implementing UN PoA commitments', Saferworld, London, United Kingdom Size: 58 pages (383KB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

What are the causes and problems of militarised law enforcement in peace operations? How can these be addressed? This paper from International Peacekeeping examines the role of the European Union Force (EUFOR) in Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH). While the military can contribute to law enforcement, such involvement is generally hindered by fear of 'mission creep' and lack of preparedness. Preferable alternatives to military involvement (such as international civil police forces collaborating with local officials) are obstructed by lack of political will. Law enforcement should be addressed early and systematically by the deployment of robust forces that avoid excessive use of force.

Author: Cornelius Friesendorf | Susan E. Penksa Source: Friesendorf, C. and Penksa, S., 2008, 'Militarized Law Enforcement in Peace Operations: EUFOR in Bosnia and Herzegovina', International Peacekeeping, vol. 15, no. 5, pp. 677-694 Size: 18 pages (135 KB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

Why do some refugees, upon return to their countries of origin, engage in violent action? This paper from George Mason University assumes that in some refugee situations a significant share of returnees engage in militant action. It examines three sets of explanatory factors (enabling environment, ideology and organisation) in order to contribute to an expanding analytical framework for refugee warrior phenomena, and to identify an agenda for future research.

Author: Kristian Berg Harpviken Source: Harpviken, K. B., 2008, 'From "Refugee Warriors" to "Returnee Warriors": Militant Homecoming in Afghanistan and Beyond', Global Migration and Transnational Politics, Working Paper, no. 5, George Mason University, Fairfax County, Virginia Size: 17 pages ()
Expanded document summary and link to full article

Is the zero-tolerance policy toward sexual exploitation and abuse having a positive impact on UN peacekeeping missions? This report, prepared for the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, reviews evidence from UN peacekeeping missions in Haiti and Liberia and concludes that the policy is yielding mixed results. It contends that the policy's difficulties stem from implementation problems and contextual challenges that would be eased by better communication and clarity as to the intents and purposes of the zero-tolerance approach.

Author: Kathleen Jennings Source: Jennings, K. M., 2008, 'Protecting Whom? Approaches to Sexual Exploitation and Abuse in UN Peacekeeping Operations', Fafo, Oslo Size: 80 pages (1.02 MB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

What are the risks and challenges facing Bangladesh's democracy and stability? Are Bangladesh's political and social institutions resilient enough to overcome these challenges? This report from the International Crisis Group examines the political risks and challenges facing Bangladesh. It argues that Bangladesh faces twin threats to its democracy and stability: deadlock over elections, and the growing challenge of militant and violent Islamism. The international community can help to address these risks by taking Bangladesh seriously as a strategic partner and moving towards more mature political engagement.

Author: International Crisis Group Source: International Crisis Group, 2008, 'Bangladesh Today', Asia Report 121, International Crisis Group Size: 39 pages (1 MB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How do civil society organisations (CSOs) impact upon conflict dynamics and conflict resolution efforts? This Institute of Development Studies (IDS) paper provides critical assessments of local CSO contributions in five conflict cases - Abkhazia, Nagorno-Karabakh, Transnistria, Western Sahara and Israel/Palestine. It finds civil society facing similar problems across these five intractable conflicts. CSOs could develop this sector further through a number of measures, including actively promoting the values of democracy to be learnt and experienced on the ground.

Author: Nona Mikhelidze | Nicoletta Pirozzi Source: Mikhelidze, N. and Pirozzi, N., 2008, 'Civil Society and Conflict Transformation in Abkhazia, Israel/Palestine, Nagorno-Karabakh, Transnistria and Western Sahara', Policy Working Paper, no. 3, MICROCON: A Micro Level Analysis of Violent Conflict, Institute of Development Studies, University of Sussex, Brighton Size: 86 pages (721KB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

Emerging global and regional complexities require India to match its military capabilities with its growing economic and technological status in order to ensure a stable and peaceful environment. This paper, published by the Journal of Defence Studies, discusses the current global and regional security environment and its impact on India and its army. While India's democratic credentials are strong and its economy resilient, its army must be modernised to meet today's needs and future challenges.

Author: Deepak Kapoor | Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses Source: Kapoor D., 2008, 'Changing Global Security Environment with Specific Reference to our Region and its Impact on the Indian Army', Journal of Defence Studies, vol 2 (2), Winter 2008, New Dehli Size: 18 pages (70 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

In April 2006, protests in Nepal led to the end of direct rule by the King and the ending of the so-called 'People's War', fought by the Maoists against the state since 1996. This report, published by Saferworld, attempts to highlight the important issues surrounding policing in Nepal in this context. It identifies a sense of optimism following the end of the civil conflict, and changing expectations of the police force. It argues that a balance needs to be struck between providing basic security during a period of transition, and preparing to reform Nepal's security system in the long term.

Author: Saferworld Source: Saferworld, 2008, 'Public safety and policing in Nepal: An analysis of public attitudes towards community safety and policing across Nepal', Saferworld Size: 62 pages (1.2 MB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

In 1971 the Pakistan Army surrendered to Indian and Bangladeshi Forces, marking the creation of the independent country of Bangladesh. This article, published in Terrorism Monitor, compares the situation in Pakistan's Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) to that which prevailed in erstwhile East Pakistan over three decades ago. It exposes several worrying similarities between the two, and proposes recommendations to prevent the further breakup of Pakistan.

Author: Tariq Ashraf Source: Ashraf T., 2008, 'Military Operations in FATA: Eliminating Terrorism or Preventing the Balkanization of Pakistan?', Terrorism Monitor, Volume 6, Issue 12, Washington, DC Size: 7 pages (48 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

While Singapore's security governance is distinct from those of its Southeast Asian counterparts, it shares regional traits of technocratic primary and relative lack of democratic controls. This paper, published by Contemporary Southeast Asia, discusses the evolution of and current challenges facing Singapore's security sector in light of current security sector governance theory. While Singapore governs its security sector better than most Southeast Asian countries, its technocratic manner and illiberal approach justify the need for some level of reform.

Author: See Sen Tang | Alvin Chew Source: Tang S.S., Chew A., 2008, 'Governing Singapore's Security Sector: Problems, Prospects, and Paradox', Contemporary Southeast Asia: A Journal of International and Strategic Affairs, Volume 30 (2): 241-263 Size: 24 pages ()
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How effective are regional and national initiatives to improve sea lane security in Southeast Asia? This Asia Policy paper examines whether efforts to improve security in Southeast Asia's waters are sufficient enough to produce a long-term beneficial effect. International pressure, the spectre of maritime terrorism, the efforts of regional states and support from external powers have helped to improve security. However, much more remains to be done and therefore securing Southeast Asia's sea lanes is still work in progress.

Author: Ian Storey Source: Storey I., 2008, 'Securing Southeast Asia's Sea Lanes: A Work in Progress', Asia Policy, Washington DC: No. 6. Size: 34 pages (387KB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

For countries emerging from conflict, integration of ex-belligerents into society and security forces is a challenging task for the nation, neighbours, civil society and ex-combatants themselves. This paper from the Conflict Study Center discusses Nepal's Maoist integration issue within the context of Disarmament Demobilisation Reintegration (DDR) and Security Sector Reform (SSR) as integration models. Nepal's current integration struggle suggests that if it does not achieve peace and stability soon, it may risk another type of socio-cultural ethnic-regional war.

Author: Bishnu Pathak | Conflict Study Center Source: Pathak B., 2008, 'Modeling the Integration of the Maoist Combatants: DDR or SSR?', Conflict Study Center, Kathmandu, Nepal: Situation Update 80 Size: 18 pages (256 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

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)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

This article from International Peacekeeping suggests an understanding of corruption that combines 'core' universal features (actions, decisions and processes that subvert or distort the nature of public office and the political process) with acknowledgement of the importance of local norms. A primary task of peacebuilding is to create a shared set of rules and norms that will govern the exercise of public office in a context where multiple sets of rules compete. In post-conflict situations, corruption cannot always be either avoided or prioritised. While it should not be tolerated, strategic focus is required, and interventions must be realistic about what is achievable.

Author: Mark Philp Source: Philp, M., 2008, 'Peacebuilding and Corruption', International Peacekeeping, vol. 15, no. 3, pp. 310-327 Size: 18 pages (139 KB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

Why has conflict prevention been neglected in the ongoing debates over global security? This article from Global Governance examines attitudes toward the international community's responsibility to prevent conflict since the publication in 2001 of the report The Responsibility to Protect. In explaining the relative neglect of prevention in debates about The Responsibility to Protect, it argues that the answer can be found in a combination of doubts about how wide the definition of prevention should be, political concerns raised by the use of prevention in the war on terrorism, and practical concerns about the appropriate institutional locus for responsibility.

Author: Alex Bellamy Source: Bellamy, A., 2008, 'Conflict Prevention and the Responsibility to Protect', Global Governance, no. 2 (April-June), pp. 135-156 Size: 19 pages ()
Expanded document summary and link to full article

Does negotiating with terrorist groups legitimise them? How can policymakers engage with multifaceted, horizontal organisations such as Al-Qaeda? This article from Security Dialogue argues that legitimacy and complexity can contribute to non-violent resolution of conflicts involving terrorist violence. It also argues that naming groups as 'terrorist' makes non-violent responses to terrorism less possible.

Author: Harmonie Toros Source: Toros, H., 2008, '`We Don't Negotiate with Terrorists!': Legitimacy and Complexity in Terrorist Conflicts', Security Dialogue, vol. 39, no. 4, pp. 407-426, International Peace Research Institute, Oslo Size: 20 pages (149 KB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

What is meant by 'the rule of law', and how can it most effectively be promoted in post-conflict states? This article from Global Governance considers definitions, and outlines lessons from Kosovo and Haiti. Donors need to recognise rule of law reform as a political activity, and to harmonise as much as possible potentially contradictory elements: (a) local narratives and resources; and (b) the historical connection of the traditional 'thick' version of the rule of law with a liberal democratic state.

Author: Giovanni Bassu Source: Bassu, G., 2008, 'Law Overruled: Strengthening the Rule of Law in Post-Conflict States', Global Governance: A Review of Multilateralism, vol. 14, no.1, pp. 21-38 Size: 18 pages (78 KB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

Virtually all peace agreements include requirements for elections, but post-conflict decisions on state structure and election design are rarely subjected to expert review. This paper by Jarrett Blanc, Aanund Hylland and KÃ¥re Vollan provides an overview of principles and mechanisms of state structures and elections systems. Concepts of division of power and group representation are applied to case studies of the Phillipines, Sudan and Sri Lanka. The paper is designed for use by negotiators, mediators and others involved in peace processes.

Author: Jarrett Blanc | , Aanund Hylland Source: Blanc, J., Hylland, A. and Vollan, K., 2007, 'State structure and electoral systems in post-conflict situations', International Foundation for Election Systems (IFES), Washington, DC, USA Size: 2 pages (24.0 KB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How can government development agencies play a part in tackling the problems that contribute to violent conflict? This paper by the UK Department for International Development (DFID) seeks to show how DFID understands and responds to conflict across the breadth of its work. It proposes to place a greater emphasis on resolving conflict before it becomes violent, to make its response to armed conflict more effective by improving its support to peace processes and enhancing the conflict-management capacity of relevant bodies, and to make its development work more 'conflict-sensitive'. The paper includes case studies from Brazil, Indonesia, Colombia, Uganda, Iraq, Israel/Palestine, Burundi, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Afghanistan, Nepal, Sudan and Yemen.

Author: DFID Source: DFID, 2007, 'Preventing Violent Conflict', UK Government Policy Paper, DFID, London Size: 40 pages (690 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

The globalisation of the private security sector (PSS) and its impact on conflict and human security has no better example than Africa. This paper, authored by Sabelo Gumedze, discusses the dynamics of the private security industry, its proliferation and relative lack of regulation, and identifies forces that drive its growth. The issue of the PSS, as it exists in Africa today, must be addressed by effective regulatory mechanisms.

Author: Sabelo Gumedze Source: Gumedze, S., 2007, 'The private security sector in Africa: The 21st century's major cause for concern?', Institute for Security Studies, ISS Paper 133, Pretoria, South Africa Size: 2 pages (22.5 KB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

Proliferation of small arms and light weapons (SALWs) continues to undermine development, the security of citizens and good governance in Africa. Author Nelson Alusala reports on the status of SALWs and disarmament in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the Central African Republic (CAR) and Chad. The monograph includes historical, political and cultural context for each country's struggles to control SALWs, and recommends actions to control SALWs and arms trafficking.

Author: Nelson Alusala Source: Alusala, N., 2007, 'Armed Conflict and Disarmament: Selected Central African Case Studies', Institute for Security Studies, ISS Monograph No 129, Pretoria, South Africa Size: 2 pages (23.0 KB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

While each phase of disarmament, demobilisation and reintegration (DDR) contains challenges, the most delicate and urgent component is disarmament. Written by Peter Swarbrick, this operational manual aims to educate donors, managers and practitioners about some of the most important obstacles to successful DDR operations. Using examples from the DDR programme in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the manual identifies common problems and practical solutions that can be applied to a variety of apparently dissimilar disarmament processes.

Author: Peter Swarbrick Source: Swarbrick, P., 2007, 'Avoiding disarmament failure: the critical link in DDR. An operational manual for donors, managers, and practitioners', Small Arms Survey, Geneva, Switzerland Size: 2 pages (23.5 KB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How have Disarmament, Demobilisation and Reintegration (DDR) programmes improved and what lessons remain to be learned? This study from Barcelona Autonomous University's Peace Culture School is an update to the one carried out last year. Its aim is to analyse current DDR programmes in 22 countries. Current programmes have a general profile that is quite novel, in terms of the quantity of experiences existing and the number of beneficiaries and the international context in which they are produced.

Author: Albert Caramés | Vicenç Fisas Source: Caramés, A., Fisas, V., Sanz, E., 2007, 'Analysis of the Disarmament, Demobilisation and Reintegration (DDR) Programs existing in the World during 2006', School for a Culture of Peace, Barcelona Autonomous University, Barcelona, Spain Size: 39 pages (575 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

This is the only comprehensive and regularly published account of the global conflict-induced internal displacement situation. In addition to an analysis of developments at the global level, the report also provides overviews of regional and thematic trends. It aims to raise awareness of the still often-overlooked plight of some 25 million internally displaced persons (IDPs) and to draw attention to existing gaps in response at both the national and international level.

Author: Jens-Hagen Eschenbächer Source: Internal Displacement Monitoring Centre, 2007 ,'Internal Displacement: Global Overview of Trends and Developments in 2006', Internal Displacement Monitoring Centre, Geneva, Switzerland Size: 103 pages (3.63 MB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

Is building peace through community development a promising approach? This paper from the Chr. Michelsen Institute draws on a recent CMI evaluation of a UNDP-led programme in Ituri district in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Community development can be an effective tool to build peace, even in the midst of violence. The Ituri experience suggests that aid agencies that adopt this strategy will stand a fair chance to succeed in significantly reducing poverty-related violence.

Author: Ingrid Samset Source: Samset, I., 2007, 'A promising experience: building peace through community development', Brief, Chr. Michelsen Institute (CMI), Vol.6 No.3, Norway Size: 4 pages (452KB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

Up to 400,000 people have died since February 2003 as a result of the war that broke out in the Darfur region of Sudan. This paper, by the Institute for Security Studies (ISS), examines the problems of civilian protection created by this war. It argues for the strengthening of the African Union (AU) force in the context of United Nations (UN) support and the fast-tracking of the peace process within Darfur between Khartoum and its neighbours.

Author: Peter Kagwanja | Patrick Mutahi Source: Kagwanja,P. & Mutahi,P., 2007, 'Protection of civilians in African peace missions: The case of the African Union Mission in Sudan, Darfur', ISS Paper 139, Pretoria, South Africa Size: 20 pages (345 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

Should Armed Non-State Actors be engaged in development dialogue? Would this be tantamount to negotiating with terrorists? Armed Non-State Actors are now an important feature of violent conflict within and between states. This paper from the German Development Institute (DIE) identifies opportunities and challenges for engaging Armed Non-State Actors from a development perspective. It refutes the idea that this engagement legitimises violence and suggests there is widespread support for such work.

Author: Noel Stott Source: Stott, N., 2007, 'Negotiating in Practice what is Non-Negotiable in Principle: Development Policy and Armed Non-State Actors', Discussion Paper, no. 8/2007, German Development Institute, Bonn, January. Size: 43 pages (35 KB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How useful have the OECD's Principles of Good International Engagement in Fragile States been in the context of Sudan after the Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA)? This report from the Norwegian Institute of International Affairs (NUPI) concentrates on the conflict between the North and the South and on three key elements of the Principles: Donor coordination, state-building and peacebuilding. On the basis of this experience, it finds the OECD Principles to be very relevant for guiding international engagement.

Author: Anita Haslie | Axel Borchgrevink Source: Haslie, A. and Borchgrevink, A., 2007, 'International Engagement in Sudan after the CPA: Report on the Piloting of OECD/DAC's 'Principles for Good International Engagement in Fragile States' for the Case of Sudan', Paper no. 714, Norwegian Institute of International Affairs Size: 46 pages (403 KB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

The proliferation of small arms and light weapons (SALW) poses a fundamental challenge to the stability of Kosovo. This briefing paper, authored by Astrit Istrefi, Anna Richards, Simon Rynn, Henry Smith and Juliana Sokolová, reports on the 2006 SALW Survey of Kosovo. It proposes measures that government, civil society and international authorities in Kosovo should take to improve SALW controls. Coordinated planning and strategy development, and links to relevant institutions and processes, are crucial to the development of effective SALW control in Kosovo.

Author: Mia Marzouk Source: Saferworld and the Forum for Civic Initiatives (FIQ), 2007, 'Small arms and human security in Kosovo: An agenda for action', commissioned by The Safe Place Project, Saferworld, London. Size: 2 pages (32.0 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

Why do some peace processes create conditions for effective protection of civilians while others don't? This paper, authored by Jeremy Brickhill, uses lessons learned from the Darfur Peace Agreement to argue that inadequate attention to security aspects of peace processes leads to failure of peace agreements and civilians left at risk. Security arrangement negotiations and transitional strategies which link short-term stabilisation with long-term security sector transformation are essential requirements for peacebuilding in Africa.

Author: Jeremy Brickhill Source: Brickhill,J., 2007, 'Protecting Civilians Through Peace Agreements: Challenges and Lessons of the Darfur Peace Agreement', ISS Paper 138, Institute for Security Studies, Pretoria, South Africa. Size: 2 pages (31.5 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

Ethnically representative armed forces in post-conflict countries can encourage a sense of commonality across ethnic boundaries and help secure a fragile peace. This paper, authored by Sven Gunnar Simonsen, cites recent efforts to establish ethnically representative armies and security forces in Afghanistan, Kosovo, Iraq, Bosnia and East Timor. While serious limitations to ethnic integration of the military exist, ethnically integrated national armies can help reduce ethnic violence and contribute to peacebuilding.

Author: Sven Gunnar Simonsen Source: Simonsen,SG., 2007, 'Building "National" Armies - Building Nations? Determinants of Success for Post-intervention Integration Efforts', International Peace Research Institute, Oslo (PRIO), Norway Size: 20 pages ()
Expanded document summary and link to full article

Liberia's national security sector operates under old structures that are unworkable, wasteful and do not engender the support of the people. This paper, authored by Gompert, Oliker, Stearns, Crane and Riley, recommends the organisation of a new sector architecture of both force structure and security institutions. Liberia must create a new security structure capable of meeting the country's internal and external challenges.

Author: David C. Gompert | Olga Oliker Source: Crane,K., Gompert,D., Oliker,O., Riley,K. & Stearns,B., 2007, 'Making Liberia Safe - Transformation of the National Security Sector', Monograph, RAND, Santa Monica, CA, USA Size: 118 pages (561kb)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

Security sector reform (SSR) is key to ensuring sustainable democratisation and peacebuilding processes in the Horn of Africa. This monograph, edited by Len Le Roux and Yemane Kidane, compares SSR experiences in the region and highlights security reform challenges facing the Horn of Africa. SSR in the Horn should include both restructuring of security institutions and strengthening of political, judicial and civil society oversight capacities. It should also be based on a comprehensive, accurate analysis of overall regional and national contexts.

Author: Len Le Roux (Editor) | Yemane Kidane (Editor) Source: Le Roux,L. and Kidane,Y. (eds.), 2007, 'Challenges to Security Sector Reform in the Horn of Africa', Monograph No 135, ISS, South Africa Size: 96 pages (471 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

Since its inception in 2002, the African Union (AU) has promoted peace and security, human rights, the rule of law, consolidation of democracy and sustainable development. This ISS Africa paper, edited by Festus B Aboagye, traces the development of AU policy objectives and highlights security issues of the "New Africa". The AU needs to address the impact of peacebuilding interventions that divert attention from issues of human safety and develop realistic action plans that will help achieve continental and regional security.

Author: Festus B Aboagye (Editor) Source: Aboagye,F., 2007, 'Complex Emergencies in the 21st Century: Challenges of New Africa's Strategic Peace and Security Policy Issues', ISS Africa, Monograph No 134, South Africa Size: 73 pages (734 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

What are the key linkages between Disarmament, Demobilisation and Reintegration (DDR) and Security Sector Reform (SSR)? How can these inform the development of policy frameworks in post-conflict contexts? This paper developed on behalf of the United Nations Office of the Special Adviser on Africa presents some of the key challenges to achieving better synergies in practice between DDR and SSR. Supporting security sector governance institutions provides an important under-acknowledged means to link SSR and DDR concerns.

Author: Alan Bryden Source: Bryden, A., 2007, 'Linkage between DDR and SSR - Understanding the DDR-SSR Nexus: Building Sustainable Peace in Africa', Issue Paper at the Second International Conference on DDR and Stability in Africa, 12-14 June, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo Size: 28 pages (260 KB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

Is it possible to fight war and manage conflict at the same time? This book from the United States Institute of Peace (USIP) explores the causes of conflict and the critical role of conflict management in volatile political environments. Peacemaking and conflict management are essential for creating a less divided, less conflicted world despite the complexities and high odds against success. The international community can check hostile adversaries of the international order and make peace at the same time.

Author: Chester A. Crocker | Fen Osler Hampson Source: Crocker, C., Osler Hampson, F. and Aall, P., 2007, 'Leashing the Dogs of War', Introduction in Crocker, C., Osler Hampson, F. and Aall, P. (eds.) 'Leashing the Dogs of War: Conflict Management in a Divided World', United States Institute of Peace, Washington, D.C. Size: 726 pages ()
Expanded document summary and link to full article

Vetting public employees in transitional societies has received less research attention than prosecutions, truth telling and reparations of individuals who have perpetrated human rights abuses under authoritarian regimes or in conflicts. This paper reports results of case studies in countries that have conducted post-conflict/post-authoritarian vetting of public servants. Vetting is more than technical personnel reform; it can help institute new norms for service in public institutions.

Author: Roger Duthie | International Center for Transitional Justice Source: Duthie, R., 2007, 'Introduction' in Justice as Prevention: Vetting Public Employees in Transitional Societies, Mayer-Rieckh,A. & de Greiff,P. (eds.), Social Science Research Council, New York, USA Size: 22 pages (136 KB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

Should external actors intervene to trigger or force a transition in extreme cases of autocratic or failed governance? This article considers the case of Burma. It explores the country's deprivations under military rule, identifies means to make its institutions adequate to the task of democratic governance, and proposes limitations on assistance under various scenarios for political transition. It argues that some degree of political transition will have to occur before assistance can be delivered, and that Burma's Asian neighbours will be crucial to any breakthrough.

Author: PRISCILLA CLAPP Source: Clapp,P., 2007, 'Building Democracy in Burma', Working Paper 02, United States Institute of Peace (USIP), USA Size: 77 pages (820 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

To what extent have religious leaders in Afghanistan been involved in the reconstruction of the country? How do they view the Afghans and foreigners who are driving it? This paper, by the Cooperation for Peace and Unity, analyses the debates surrounding religious groups in the country and assesses their potential role as civil society actors. The paper argues that most religious leaders have a positive view of development. The government and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) should make greater efforts to forge links with them.

Author: Kanishka Nawabi | Mirwais Wardak Source: Wardak, M., Zaman, I., and Nawabi, K., 2007, 'The Role and Functions of Religious Civil Society in Afghanistan: Case Studies from Sayedabad and Kunduz', Cooperation for Peace and Unity, Kabul Size: 53 pages (380 KB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

Which factors determine whether former combatants can be successfully integrated into social and political spheres at the end of a conflict? This article published in Conflict, Security and Development compares the political reintegration of the Movimiento 19 de Abril (M-19) in Colombia in the early 1990s with the reintegration of the paramilitary a decade later. It argues that successful reintegration depends on the acceptance of relevant audiences and the capacity of former combatants to perform as social and political interlocutors.

Author: Alexandra Guáqueta Source: Guáqueta, A., 2007, 'The Way Back In: Reintegrating Illegal Armed Groups in Colombia Then and Now' Conflict, Security and Development, vol. 7, no. 3, pp. 417-456 Size: 41 pages (270 KB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

Combating organised crime should occur throughout the conflict continuum, from conflict prevention to post-conflict peacebuilding. This paper, published by Swisspeace, examines the impact of organised criminal groups on peacebuilding efforts in Kosovo and Liberia. Although types of organised crime differ in the two countries, both cases demonstrate that organised crime presents a serious threat to peacebuilding efforts and damages the functioning of democratic institutions.

Author: Nika Stražišar Teran Source: Teran, N. S., 2007, 'Peacebuilding and Organised Crime: The Cases of Kosovo and Liberia', Swisspeace Working Paper 1/2007, Bern Size: 52 pages (489.45 KB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

Dealing with a legacy of human rights violations is one of the most difficult challenges facing any society in the aftermath of violent conflict. The Swisspeace Annual Conference 2006 considered the cases of Guatamala and Bosnia-Herzegovina, the peace agreements that ended the conflicts in these countries a decade after they were signed and a number of related issues. The introductory article from the conference outlines the factors that lead to establishing truth commissions in one context and judicial tribunals in another, considering how a society can learn to live with the memory of human rights violations, and how external actors can contribute to the process of reconciliation.

Author: Jonathan Sisson Source: Sisson,J.(ed.), 2007, 'Dealing with the Past in Post-Conflict Societies: Ten Years after the Peace Accords in Guatemala and Bosnia-Herzegovina', Introduction at the Swisspeace Annual Conference 2006, Bern Size: 80 pages (871 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

What are the key security issues facing post-conflict Nepal? How can ongoing local tensions be addressed? This donor briefing paper from International Alert and Friends for Peace reports on the security concerns of vulnerable and marginalised groups in the country. Donors and communities should work together to promote locally owned security structures, collaboration between political parties and an approach to reconciliation which incorporates development strategies.

Author: Natalie Hicks (not author) Source: International Alert and Friends for Peace, 2007, 'Nepal at a Crossroads: Strengthening Community Security in the Post-Settlement Context', Donor Briefing Paper, International Alert, London Size: 14 pages (660 KB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How should the increasing recognition of the interdependence of development and security assistance change the definition of overseas development assistance (ODA)? This paper from the Bonn International Centre for Conversion discusses proposals for possible extensions of the ODA category to cover security-related assistance activities. While certain aspects of conflict prevention, security sector reform and anti-terrorism activity should be included within ODA, any such definitional broadening should be limited. A new "Official Security, Peace and Stability Assistance" category could be added to the OECD DAC (Development Assistance Committee) reporting system to present a broader picture of security-related donor assistance.

Author: Michael Brzoska Source: Brzoska, 2007, 'Analysis of and Recommendations for Covering Security Relevant Expenditures Within and Outside of Official Development Assistance' Paper, no. 53, Bonn International Center for Conversion, Bonn Size: 53 pages (630 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

The conflict in Darfur has killed an estimated 200,000 people and displaced 2.5 million. Although Sudan has accepted a hybrid African Union-United Nations Mission, caveats and resistance from the Sudanese government and other actors make it difficult to restore stability. How should the European Union (EU) engage in fragile situations such as that of Sudan? This article from European Security Review summarises a European Security Contact Group meeting on international and EU engagement in Sudan. It finds that achieving 'good international engagement' in fragile situations like Sudan is greatly complex for the EU.

Author: Giji Gya Source: Gya,G., 2007, 'Engaging Fragile Situations: Sudan', in European Security Review 35, ISIS Europe, Brussels, Belgium Size: 5 pages (97 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

The peacekeeping operation in Darfur needs substantive involvement from the UN and a robust mandate that addresses the humanitarian emergency and protection of civilians. The proposed African Union-United Nations (AU-UN) hybrid mission raises fundamental questions regarding authority. This paper from the Institute for Security Studies (ISS) examines the challenges of hybrid command and control arrangements in regard to the peacekeeping operation in Darfur. It argues that difficulties confronting the AU-UN operation result in part from the attempt to portray a conventional joint multinational operation as a hybrid mission.

Author: Festus Aboagye Source: Aboagye,F., 2007, 'The Hybrid Operation for Darfur: A Critical Review of the Concept of the Mechanism', ISS Africa, Occasional Paper 149, South Africa Size: 24 pages (1.31 MB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

Has the African Union (AU) embraced the responsibility to protect (R2P) in its Constitutive Act? Has it been successful in implementing R2P? This study, by the Institute for Security Studies, assesses its efforts to promote peace in Africa and to deal with emerging crises. It concludes that the AU is committed to R2P, although it is too early for a definitive judgment, since the institutions that the AU has developed to change attitudes need to be given an opportunity to work.

Author: Dr Tim Murithi Source: Murithi,T., 2007, 'The Responsibility to Protect, as Enshrined in Article 4 of the Constitutive Act of the African Union', in Conflict Prevention and the 'Responsibility to Protect' in Africa?, ISS Africa, African Security Review Vol 16 No 3, South Africa Size: 11 pages (131KB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

In light of the United Nations' (UN) failure to act in the 1990s, are Africa's experiments in cooperative security the future of peacekeeping? How do new approaches to peacekeeping affect the legitimacy of global multilateral security architecture? This article from African Security Review analyses hybrid missions and security collaboration in Africa. These approaches are responses to Africa's political, financial and operational constraints and should not be regarded as alternatives for UN-led peacekeeping.

Author: Timothy Othieno | Nhamo Samasuwo Source: Othieno,T. and Samasuwo,N., 2007, 'A Critical Analysis of Africa's Experiments with Hybrid Missions and Security Collaboration', in Conflict Prevention and the 'Responsibility to Protect' in Africa?, ISS Africa, African Security Review Vol 16 No 3, South Africa Size: 15 pages (153 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

Is the African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM) an effective instrument for promoting peace and stability in Africa? How successfully does it address the links between peace, governance and development? This article from The African Security Review critically examines how the APRM self-assessment questionnaire covers conflict detection and prevention. Reviewing the first three APRM country reports, from Ghana, Kenya and Rwanda, it questions whether the APRM is an effective instrument for promoting peace. While the APRM could be useful in describing sources of conflict and tension, Africa should not rely on the APRM alone to prevent conflict.

Author: Steve Gruzd Source: Gruzd,S., 2007, 'Peace, Security and the African Peer Review Mechanism: Are the Tools up to the Task?', in Conflict Prevention and the 'Responsibility to Protect' in Africa?, ISS Africa, African Security Review Vol 16 No 3, South Africa Size: 13 pages (152 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How successful has the UN mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUC) been in protecting civilians? This study, by the Institute of Security Studies, assesses MONUC's strategy during its more passive phase from 2000 to 2004 and during the period from 2005, which included more forceful peace operations. The study concludes that, in its passive role, MONUC failed to protect civilians altogether. However, its more aggressive operations occasionally led to greater civilian abuse.

Author: Joshua Marks Source: Marks,J., 2007, 'The Pitfalls of Action and Inaction: Civilian Protection in MONUC's Peacekeeping Operations', in Conflict Prevention and the 'Responsibility to Protect' in Africa?, ISS Africa, African Security Review Vol 16 No 3, South Africa Size: 14 pages (142.31KB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

What challenges confront the peacebuilding agenda in Africa? To what extent have peacebuilding measures been undertaken in conflict-ridden African states? This article from African Security Review examines the challenges, extent and achievement of peacebuilding in Sierra Leone and assesses the prospects for sustainable peace. The experience of Sierra Leone demonstrates growing international recognition that peacebuilding should be an essential part of any multinational peacekeeping operation in Africa. While many positive developments have strengthened the prospects for long-term peace in Sierra Leone, several problems still need to be urgently addressed.

Author: Theo Neethling Source: Neethling,T., 2007, 'Pursuing Sustainable Peace Through Post-conflict Peacebuilding: The Case of Sierra Leone', in Conflict Prevention and the 'Responsibility to Protect' in Africa?, ISS Africa, African Security Review Vol 16 No 3, South Africa Size: 15 pages (148 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

What measures should be taken to prevent armed conflict in West Africa? What steps have West African states taken to monitor signs of conflict? This article from African Security Review examines conflict prevention and early warning mechanisms in West Africa. The most effective conflict prevention measures are good governance and improved standards of living and popular education. These measures should also serve as a checklist for early warning systems.

Author: Issaka Souare Source: Souaré,IK., 2007, 'Conflict Prevention and Early Warning Mechanisms in West Africa: A Critical Assessment of Progress', in Conflict Prevention and the 'Responsibility to Protect' in Africa?, ISS Africa, African Security Review Vol 16 No 3, South Africa Size: 14 pages (159 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How can the use of gender analysis help improve post-conflict peace processes? This paper, published in Gender and Development, discusses the research methodology and results of the 2005 Peace and Conflict Gender Analysis (PCGA) conducted by the United Nations Development Fund for Women (UNIFEM) in the Solomon Islands. The use of gender analysis to shape peace processes would help solidify women's gains in status and contribute to economic and civil society development.

Author: Annalise Moser Source: Moser, A., 2007, 'The Peace and Conflict Gender Analysis: UNIFEM's Research in the Solomon Islands' Gender and Development, volume 15, issue 2 Size: 10 pages (115 KB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

Incentives and sanctions are used by external actors to try to stop armed conflicts in the short term. But are they effective in promoting peace? This research by Conciliation Resources argues that these instruments are often not used as part of a broader strategy aimed at resolving conflict. They are often a confused mix of coercion and assistance, which neither force nor encourage the conflict parties towards a negotiated settlement.

Author: Conciliation Resources Source: Conciliation Resources, 2007, 'Incentives, sanctions and conditionality in peace processes', Conciliation Resources Joint analysis workshop report, UK Size: 20 pages (299KB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

What is the impact of democratic governance on national security in Southern Africa? How does it affect collaboration in regional security? This study, by the Southern African Defence and Security Management Network (SADSEM), looks at the countries of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) - South Africa, Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Botswana, Lesotho, Mauritius, Seychelles, Swaziland and Tanzania. Taking both an historical and comparative perspective, it suggests that the relationship between democratisation, national security and security cooperation in the region is still not clear. The relationship depends on the stability of a country, the nature of its democratic transition and the degree of institutionalisation of its democratic governance.

Author: Gavin Cawthra (ed.) | Abillah Omari (ed.) Source: Cawthra,G., du Pisani,A. and Omari,A. (eds.), 2007, 'Security and Democracy in Southern Africa', The Wits P&DM Governance Series, Wits University Press, Johannesburg, South Africa Size: 340 pages ()
Expanded document summary and link to full article

What is the cost of armed violence? IANSA, Saferworld and Oxfam's investigation into the cost of armed violence to Africa looks at where the weapons come from which feed this violence, and then highlights an important area where progress is urgently required at both African and international levels. Armed conflict alone has cost Africa around US$300bn since 1990. This is a massive waste of resources - roughly equivalent to all international aid to Africa from major donors during the same period.

Author: Oxfam | IANSA Source: Hillier,D., 2007, 'Africa's missing billions: International arms flows and the cost of conflict', Oxfam International, IANSA and Saferworld, Briefing Paper 107, UK Size: 38 pages (427 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

There was widespread relief and satisfaction following the successful October 2006 presidential elections in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Will the elections, however, improve the DRC's situation? This article from African Security Review examines the challenges facing the DRC beyond the elections. The problems facing the DRC will not be solved by the elections alone and will cripple the government if they are not immediately addressed. The elections should not serve as an exit strategy for the international community.

Author: David Kampf Source: Kampf, D. 2007. 'The Democratic Republic of Congo: Beyond the Elections', African Security Review, 16 (1), Institute for Security Studies, Pretoria Size: 5 pages (71 KB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

General Laurent Nkunda has recently re-emerged as a threat to prospects for peace and stability in the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). How can the situation best be defused? This report, by the Institute for Security Studies, suggests that the Congolese government should prioritise a political solution to the impasse rather than pursuing a military option, which can lead only to further suffering among the civilian population and further aggravate ethnic tensions.

Author: Stephanie Wolters Source: Wolters, S. 2007. 'Trouble in Eastern DRC: The Nkunda Factor', Situation Report, September 2007, Institute for Security Studies, Pretoria Size: 11 pages (161KB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

What is the relationship between corruption and armed conflict? What are the implications of corruption research for the study of conflict, and vice versa? This paper from the Norwegian Institute of International Affairs (NUPI) discusses the causal impact of corruption on armed conflict and the impact of conflict on corruption. So far there has been little interaction between empirical corruption research and empirical research into civil wars. Bringing the two strands together enables the observation of anomalies that would have been difficult to detect within each field in isolation.

Author: Jens Christopher Andvig Source: Andvig, J.C. 2007. 'Corruption and armed conflicts: some stirring around in the governance soup', NUPI Working Papers, Norwegian Institute of International Affairs (NUPI), Oslo Size: 69 pages (538 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How can the United Nations play a more effective role in preventing violent conflict? This article from Global Governance analyses the UN's track record and potential role in regard to operational, structural and systemic conflict prevention activities. The UN has had limited effectiveness in implementing conflict prevention programmes, but shows greater potential as a norm setter and strategic centre of political action.

Author: Barnett R. Rubin | Bruce D. Jones Source: Rubin, B.R. and Jones, B.D. 2007. 'Prevention of Violent Conflict: Tasks and Challenges for the United Nations', Global Governance 13 (2007), 391-408 Size: 18 pages (75 KB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

Do human rights violations contribute to internal conflict? What effects do different types of human rights violations have on the likelihood of conflict? This article from Human Rights Quarterly examines the links between violations of internationally recognised human rights and the emergence or escalation of internal conflict. It argues that while some human rights violations are associated with conflict emergence or escalation, it is difficult to establish precise causal links. Efforts to address the violation of human rights may, under certain circumstances, run the risk of contributing to conflict emergence or escalation.

Author: Oskar N. T. Thoms | James Ron Source: Thoms, O.N.T. and Ron, J. 2007. 'Do Human Rights Violations Cause Internal Conflict?', Human Rights Quarterly, 29(3), pp.674-705, The Johns Hopkins University Press, Baltimore Size: 32 pages (1.82 MB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

What role has land and resource scarcity played in violent conflict in Rwanda? How should the international transitional justice community integrate economic factors such as land distribution into reconciliation processes? This paper from the Institute for Justice and Reconciliation examines the role of land in conflict and reconciliation in Rwanda. It shows that land and resource scarcity are deeply linked to conflict and ethnicity in Rwanda. Unless land issues are integrated into transitional justice processes, reconciliation will remain superficial and the potential for violent conflict will remain.

Author: Zinaida Miller Source: Miller, Z. 2007. 'Constructing Sustainable Reconciliation: Land, Power, and Transitional Justice in Post-Genocide Rwanda', Institute for Justice and Reconciliation, Cape Town Size: 61 pages (318 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

What do the Burundi peace negotiations reveal about the neo-liberal conception of peace that informs conflict resolution in Africa? Using the Burundi peace negotiations as an example, this article from Review of African Political Economy examines neo-liberal conflict resolution in Africa. Peace negotiations should be seen as political struggles, beyond that between the belligerents, due to the involvement of supporting actors promoting vested interests. Resulting peace agreements are not necessarily consensual or compromises for the sake of peace, but rather temporary stalemates between international, regional and local actors.

Author: Patricia Daley Source: Daley, P., 2007, 'The Burundi Peace Negotiations: An African Experience of Peace-making', Review of African Political Economy, 34(112) , pp.333 - 352 Size: 20 pages ()
Expanded document summary and link to full article

The emergence in the last decade of the human security concept has allowed security debate to refocus on the security of the individual, and to acknowledge the wider role that a range of actors play in security, including non-state actors. Children, however, remain largely invisible in the discussion. This paper from the Geneva Centre for the Democratic Control of Armed Forces (DCAF) links child protection imperatives to post-conflict peacebuilding and recovery. Greater recognition of specific security issues affecting children can best be achieved through strengthening existing security governance frameworks and the human rights perspective of security.

Author: David Nosworthy Source: Nosworthy, D. 2007. 'Children's security in post-conflict peace building', Discussion Paper, Geneva Centre for the Democratic Control of Armed Forces (DCAF), Geneva Size: 20 pages (107 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How has Uganda attempted to reintegrate abductees and former combatants from the Lord's Resistance Army (LRA) back into civilian life? This article from Conflict, Security and Development analyses disarmament, demobilisation and reintegration (DDR) in northern Uganda and the challenges facing attempts to reintegrate former LRA combatants. It finds that the impact of Uganda's informal DDR process is limited by the ongoing conflict and humanitarian crisis. DDR will only succeed if it is part of a wider peacebuilding process.

Author: Anna Borzello Source: Borzello, A. 2007. 'The challenge of DDR in Northern Uganda: The Lord's Resistance Army', Conflict, Security & Development, 7(3), pp.387 - 415, Routledge, Oxford Size: 29 pages ()
Expanded document summary and link to full article

What determines the ability of ex-combatants to reintegrate into society? What impact do international disarmament, demobilisation and reintegration (DDR) efforts have on reintegration? This article from the Journal of Conflict Resolution uses data on ex-combatants in Sierra Leone to analyse individual-level determinants of demobilisation and reintegration. It finds little evidence at the micro level to suggest that internationally funded DDR programmes facilitate demobilisation and reintegration.

Author: Macartan Humphreys | Jeremy M. Weinstein Source: Humphreys, M. and Weinstein, J. M. 2007. 'Demobilization and Reintegration', Journal of Conflict Resolution, 51(4), pp.531-567, Yale University, New Haven Size: 38 pages (243 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

To what extent has the United States developed a coherent and effective response to the challenge of precarious states? This article from the Center for Global Development (CGD) examines the US response to precarious states, evaluating progress made and highlighting remaining challenges. It finds that the US has yet to embrace an integrated, whole of government approach to the challenges posed by fragile, failing and war-torn countries.

Author: Stewart Patrick Source: Patrick, S. 2007. 'The U.S. Response to Precarious States: Tentative Progress and Remaining Obstacles to Coherence', Essay, Center for Global Development Size: 32 pages (403 KB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

To what extent has the World Bank incorporated gender considerations into its investments in post-conflict reconstruction (PCR) situations? This paper from Gender Action examines World Bank PCR investments for gender considerations, with particular attention to Angola, Cambodia, Colombia, Iraq, Sri Lanka and Rwanda. It shows that the World Bank has integrated gender considerations into its investments to only a limited extent. The Bank must integrate into PCR: 1) women-focused activities; 2) gender aware programming; and 3) the promotion of gender equality aimed at building peaceful societies.

Author: Elaine Zuckerman | Suzanna Dennis Source: Zuckerman, E., Dennis, S. and Greenberg, M. 2007. 'The Gender Dimensions of Post-Conflict Reconstruction: The World Bank Track Record', Gender Action, Washington, D.C. Size: 68 pages (843 KB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How successful has the UN been in building peace in Afghanistan between 2001 and 2005? This article from Global Governance argues that the case of Afghanistan affirms the benefits of democratisation after war that seeks to bridge the gap in conceptions between old and new authority types. Institutionalisation of democratic authority should remain at the centre of peacebuilding because it creates the conditions necessary to mediate competing domestic interests and to address the causes of a conflict peacefully.

Author: Richard J. Ponzio Source: Ponzio, R. J. 2007. 'Transforming Political Authority: UN Democratic Peacebuilding in Afghanistan', Global Governance 13(2), pp.255-275 Size: 21 pages (219KB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How successful has the United Nations Peacebuilding Commission (PBC) been in its first year of activity? What challenges confront the PBC? This report from ActionAid, CAFOD and Care International UK assesses the first year of the PBC's work in Sierra Leone and Burundi. It finds that the PBC's impact has been largely positive and well received, but that important challenges remain.

Author: Annie Street | Jennifer Smith Source: Street, A., Smith, J. and Mollet, H. 2007. 'Consolidating the peace?: views from Sierra Leone and Burundi on the United Nations Peacebuilding Commission', ActionAid, CAFOD and CARE International Size: 44 pages (777kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

The international community currently favours an approach to development that stresses the triangular linkage between security, good governance and economic development. This approach informs the European Union's (EU) agenda in Africa. This paper, by the Institute of Development Studies (IDS), argues that this agenda is as much determined by the bureaucratic and national affiliations of the concerned EU actors as it is by African realities and international trends. Specifically, African security triggers a competition between different EU institutions, eager to be the driving force behind additional resources and autonomy. Thus the consistency and credibility of the EU security policy in Africa will depend on the responses provided to these institutional rivalries.

Author: Niagalé Bagoyoko | Marie V. Gibert Source: Bagoyoko, N. and Gibert, M.V. 2007. 'The European Union in Africa: The Linkage Between Security, Governance and Development from an Institutional Perspective', IDS Working Paper 284, Institute of Development Studies, Brighton Size: 39 pages (229kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

What are the objectives, activities and principles involved in peace support operations (PSOs)? This guide from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) provides information and guidance for UK police personnel on international policing operations in PSOs. It outlines how police personnel should conduct police operations and rule of law activities on PSOs and sets out the main principles of democratic policing.

Author: FCO Library Source: FCO. 2007. 'Peace support operations: Information and guidance for UK police personnel', Police and Justice Team, Conflict Issues Group, Foreign & Commonwealth Office, London Size: 60 pages (2.51 MB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

Preventing and reducing the unauthorised diversion of Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) transfers is widely acknowledged to be a critical issue. The UN Programme of Action (PoA) on SALW includes strong commitments on this matter. This report, by Biting the Bullet, identifies processes by which SALW transfers are diverted to unauthorised recipients, outlines aspects of transfers that pose particular risks, and proposes measures to mitigate such risks. It also specifically considers existing and potential good practice with regard to end-user certificates (EUCs), preventing unauthorised re-export, and controlling transit of SALW.

Author: Owen Greene | Elizabeth Kirkham Source: Greene, O. and Kirkham, E. 2007. 'Small arms and light weapons transfer controls to prevent diversion: Developing and implementing key programme of action commitments', Briefing: Biting the Bullet, Saferworld and University of Bradford Size: 30 pages (1.08 MB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

What role should Nepal's police play in broader efforts towards peacebuilding and national reconciliation? As the primary civil agency for law enforcement and the maintenance of public order, police are key actors in post-conflict environments. In this collection of essays, commissioned by Saferworld, Nepali authors consider police reform and development in post-conflict Nepal. Nepal's security institutions have not traditionally been subject to effective public scrutiny or democratic oversight. Debate, awareness raising and the development of indigenous capacities to address justice and security are critical.

Author: Simon Rynn (ed.) Source: Rynn, S. (ed.), 2007, 'Policing in Nepal: A collection of essays', Saferworld, London, UK Size: 99 pages (849 KB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How successful has minilateral cooperation among France, Germany, the United Kingdom (EU-3) and the EU's Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP) been with regard to the Iranian nuclear crisis? This paper from European Security argues that minilateral cooperation in the Iranian case and in security affairs in general do not easily translate into multilateral cooperation.

Author: Sebastian Harnisch Source: Harnisch, S. (2007). 'Minilateral Cooperation and Transatlantic Coalition-Building: The E3/EU-3 Iran Initiative', European Security, 16(1), pp. 1-27, Routledge. Size: 28 pages ()
Expanded document summary and link to full article

As members of the Europe Union grapple with new security issues, will strongly held beliefs about sovereignty give way to an untested supranational order? This paper from European Security provides evidence that integration is already occurring, in large part because of the influential role of transnational experts in security technology. In the context of Europe, the possibility of a kind of EU Homeland Security is at the core of its future security role in the world.

Author: Mai'a K. Davis Cross Source: Cross, M.K.D. (2007). 'An EU Homeland Security? Sovereignty vs. Supranational Order', European Security, 16(1), pp. 79-97, Routledge. Size: 20 pages ()
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How useful is financial surveillance as a method of countering terrorism? How much privacy should be exchanged for security? This study from the University of London argues that, in combating terrorist financing, the challenge is to identify the unknown risk without inhibiting the everyday transactions of ordinary citizens. This requires better intelligence on terrorist organisations and not terabytes of data recording the financial transactions of the population at large.

Author: William Vlcek Source: Vlcek, W. (2007). 'Surveillance to Combat Terrorist Financing in Europe: Whose Liberty, Whose Security?', European Security, 16(1), pp. 99-119, Routledge Size: 22 pages ()
Expanded document summary and link to full article

Why is the peace process in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) faltering? Why have the demobilisation programmes been unsuccessful? This paper, from the School of Oriental and African Studies, analyses these problems against the background of the DRC's culture of violence, its informal politics and economy and the crises faced by ordinary people. Demobilisation programmes do not address fighters' motivations and the peace process has led to immediate gains by some parties while institutionalising destructive systems and long-term losses for the population.

Author: Zoë Marriage Source: Marriage, Z, 2007, 'Flip-flop rebel, dollar soldier: demobilisation in the Democratic Republic of Congo', Conflict, Security and Development, 7(2), pp. 281-309, Routledge Size: 30 pages ()
Expanded document summary and link to full article

What is the key to the success of Tajikistan's post-war stabilisation? This paper from Conflict, Security & Development assesses demobilisation, disarmament and reintegration (DDR) initiatives in Tajikistan. It argues Tajikistan's post-war stability is in part attributable to how the country ignored conventional emphases on political liberalisation, demobilisation and disarmament. President Rakhmonov found a way to move Tajikistan forward that matched the local context. This highlights dangers of applying universal DDR strategies in highly specific local conditions.

Author: Stina Torjesen | S. Neil MacFarlane Source: Torjesen, S. and MacFarlane, S.N. (2007). 'R before D: the case of post conflict reintegration in Tajikistan', Conflict, Security and Development, 7(2), pp. 311-332, Routledge. Size: 23 pages ()
Expanded document summary and link to full article

What are the links between youth, security and development? How can security and development initiatives improve the lives of youths in developing countries? This article from Conflict, Security and Development examines how youths feature in global security and development initiatives. It concludes that meeting youths' needs requires close collaboration among stakeholders, with financial assistance from development agencies helping bring together local, national and regional actors.

Author: Olawale Ismail | Abiodun Alao Source: Ismail, O. and Alao, A. (2007). 'Youths in the interface of development and security', Conflict, Security and Development, 7(1), pp. 3-25, Routledge. Size: 23 pages ()
Expanded document summary and link to full article

What are the implications for human security (conflict and poverty) of low state capacity and resilience? This paper from Conflict, Security & Development suggests a model of state fragility that is based on the state's capacity to protect itself, deliver services and manage economic risks and on the state's resilience in negotiating social relations and political risks. By isolating initial conditions in a country, the model gives a truer picture of performance. It suggests a more appropriate aid distribution that takes into account fragility.

Author: Eka Ikpe Source: Ikpe, E. (2007). 'Challenging the discourse on fragile states', Conflict, Security and Development, 7(1), pp. 85-124, Routledge Size: 41 pages ()
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How can we explain the lack of coherence within international conflict-handling mechanisms? This article from Conflict, Security and Development examines the gaps in the international community's conflict-handling mechanisms from the perspective of coherence and organisational behaviour. It finds that organisational behaviour is one explanation for a lack of coherence and the various disconnects within international conflict-handling mechanisms. Ultimately, solutions to the organisational problems that inhibit coherence in international peace-building efforts will depend on political will.

Author: Randolph Kent Source: Kent, R, 2007, 'The Governance of Global Security and Development: Convergence, Divergence and Coherence', Conflict, Security and Development, vol. 7, no. 1, pp. 125- 65 Size: 41 pages ()
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How can the presence of 'other armed groups' (OAGs) be dealt with in building stability in post-conflict environments? This paper from Conflict, Security & Development looks at the 'White Army' militias in Sudan, who maintained an armed presence after Sudan's Comprehensive Peace Agreement in 2005. It provides an analysis of both the forcible and voluntary disarmament strategies that were implemented by the Sudanese Government. It argues that organisations such as the UN, local government and NGOs played an important role in successful disarmament. But challenges remain in building sustainable conditions for peace.

Author: Matthew B. Arnold | Chris Alden Source: Arnold, M.B.; Alden, C. (2007). ''This gun is our food': Disarming the White Army militias of South Sudan', Conflict, Security and Development, 7(3), pp. 361-385, Routledge. Size: 26 pages ()
Expanded document summary and link to full article

What progress have developing countries and their development partners made towards meeting the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs)? What obstacles and challenges remain to meeting the goals by the target date of 2015? This report from the United Nations presents a comprehensive global assessment of progress towards achieving the MDGs. While some progress is being made, the MDGs will only be achieved if concerted additional action is taken immediately and sustained until 2015. All stakeholders must fulfil the commitments made in the Millennium Declaration and subsequent pronouncements.

Author: UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs Source: United Nations, 2007, 'The Millennium Development Goals Report - 2007', United Nations, New York, USA Size: 21 pages (1.18 MB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How do Albanian and Serbian communities in Kosovo perceive plans for decentralisation? What are the threats to stability that arise from decentralisation? This paper from the Kosovo Institute for Policy Research and Development examines plans for decentralisation in Kosovo. It finds that different perceptions, expectations, fears and interests drive the attitudes of Albanians and Serbs to decentralisation. All those involved in decentralisation must be prepared to respond in an appropriate and concerted manner to mitigate potential conflicts arising from decentralisation.

Author: Ilir Dugolli | Bekim Çollaku Source: Dugolli, I., Çollaku, B. and Agimi, I. (2007). 'Ethnic Centralization and the Perils of Confusing Solutions', Discussion Paper, KIPRED: Prishtina Size: 34 pages (351 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How do poverty and inequality causally interact with conflict? While there is a general view that poverty and inequality can lead to conflict, the nature of the links are less well appreciated. This paper draws out the links based on the recent economics literature and discusses their implications for policy. While inequality is a natural concomitant of economic processes, particularly those driven by the market, its implications for security emerge when unequal outcomes align with socio-political cleavages.

Author: Ravi Kanbur Source: Kanbur, R., 2007, 'Poverty and Conflict: The Inequality Link', International Peace Academy, New York. Size: 2 pages (29kb)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How effective are international efforts to build peace? This paper, published by the International Peace Academy, assesses the status of international peace efforts and highlights chronic weaknesses in peacekeeping processes. In recent years, international and bi-lateral institutions have made efforts to fine-tune their peacebuilding processes. However, systemic issues of international political will and attention, resource allocation and a failure to recognise local contexts continue to affect the ability of international and national actors to establish enduring peace.

Author: Charles T. Call | Elizabeth M. Cousens Source: Call, C.T., E.M. Cousens, 2007, 'Ending Wars and Building Peace', Working with Crisis Working Paper Series, New York: International Peace Academy. Size: 22 pages (333 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How is peacebuilding interpreted in meaning and practice? To what extent has it been institutionalised? Peacebuilding is generically defined as external interventions designed to prevent armed conflict. This article, published in Global Governance, surveys twenty-four governmental and intergovernmental bodies that are active in peacebuilding. It analyses how they conceptualise and operationalise their peacebuilding mandate, along with mapping areas of potential concern. It finds that most programmes have focused on the immediate or underlying causes of conflict, to the relative neglect of state institutions.

Author: Michael Barnett | Hunjoon Kim Source: Barnett, M., Kim, H., O'Donnell, M., and Sitea, L., 2007. 'Peacebuilding: What is in a Name?' Global Governance, 13: 35-38. Size: 24 pages (117 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

The past decade has seen growing numbers of governments and organisations devote resources to interventions intended to avert or end conflict. How can these be evaluated? This report from CDA Collaborative Learning Projects (CDA) represents a step in the development of practical evaluation guidance. Scope, conflict analysis, impacts, skills and tools all need to be considered. Next steps should include donor experimentation with evaluations, an annual review of evaluations and a policy review.

Author: Mary B. Anderson | Diana Chigas Source: OECD-DAC, 2007, 'Encouraging Effective Evaluation of Conflict Prevention and Peacebuilding Activities: Toward DAC Guidance', A Joint Project of the DAC Network on Conflict, Peace and Development Co-operation and DAC Network on Development Evaluation, Paris. Size: 2 pages (35.5)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

A focus on "root causes" of civil war would not improve peacebuilding interventions and could even be counterproductive. This paper, published by the Journal of Intervention and Statebuilding, disputes the explanation that interventions fail in part because they fail to address root causes of civil war. The most pressing question for peacebuilding missions is not why civil war occurs, but how we intervene and improve on currently inadequate results.

Author: Susan L. Woodward Source: Woodward, S.L., 2007, 'Do the Root Causes of Civil War Matter? On Using Knowledge to Improve Peacebuilding Operations', Journal of Intervention and Statebuilding, vol. 1, no. 2, 143-170. Size: 50 pages (126 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How successful has the recent post-war reconstruction of Afghanistan been in the light of historical experiences of similar reforms? This Third World Quarterly article argues that the conflation of post war reconstruction with a broader agenda for development and modernisation has brought out a wide range of tensions associated with social change. The entire project shows signs of severe contradictions that are adding to the problems caused by the growing insurgency.

Author: Astri Suhrke Source: Suhrke, A., 2007, 'Reconstruction as Modernization: the 'post-conflict' project in Afghanistan', Third World Quarterly, 28:7, 1291-1308. Routledge Size: 19 pages (182KB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

What are the Integrated Disarmament, Demobilisation and Reintegration standards (IDDRS)? This paper acts as a guideline to IDDRS. In a peacekeeping context there has been a trend towards complex operations that seek to deal with a wide variety of issues rather than traditional peacekeeping. The IDDRS provide the UN system with a set of policies, guidelines and procedures for the planning, implementation and monitoring of DDR programmes in a peacekeeping context.

Author: UNDDR Source: United Nations. 2007. Integrated Disarmament, Demobilization, and Reintegration Standards (IDDRS). New York. Size: 1 pages (26.5kb)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

Which influences shaped the 1999 Sierra Leone peace agreement? The peace accord is remembered for the blanket, unconditional amnesty granted to all warring parties, which met with strong international condemnation. This Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue and International Center for Transitional Justice article tracks the discussions and influences that resulted in the Lome Accord. It finds that the amnesty was determined by the incontestable political and military realities of the time. Focusing particularly on issues of justice and accountability, it also assesses the impact of the accord in succeeding years.

Author: Priscilla Hayner Source: Hayner, P., 2007, 'Negotiating Peace in Sierra Leone: Confronting the Justice Challenge', Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue and the International Center for Transitional Justice, Geneva Size: 40 pages ()
Expanded document summary and link to full article

What is the impact of the War of Terror (WOT) on development aid? This study, by the North-South Institute, examines the way in which WOT has affected the orientation and efficacy of official development assistance (ODA). It argues that ODA has become a tool for the realisation of the goals of WOT. Aid for political and security purposes has undermined support for development priorities.

Author: Kwesi Aning Source: Aning, K., (2007), 'Security, the War on Terror and Official Development Assistance', Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre, Accra, Ghana Size: 32 pages (343KB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How can the international community facilitate security sector reform (SSR) in the Western Balkans? This report, by the Partnership for Peace Consortium, reviews democratic standards in SSR and security sector governance (SSG) in the region. European integration is the stimulus for countries to undertake SSR in the region. However, there is a lot to be done to reach the SSG standards necessary for EU and NATO accession. Local ownership and the capacity of international actors to coordinate their activities need to be addressed.

Author: Anja H. Ebnöther | Ernst M. Felberbauer Source: Ebnöther, A.H., Felberbauer, E.M. and Staničić, M. (Eds.) (2007). 'Security Sector Reform in South East Europe - from a Necessary Remedy to a Global Concept: 13th Workshop of the Study Group "Regional Stability in South East Europe"', Austrian National Defence Academy, DCAF and the PfP Consortium. Size: 171 pages (823KB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

The UN requires all parties to armed conflict to take special measures to protect people from sexual violence. However, this report by the Geneva Centre for the Democratic Control of Armed Forces suggests that there has been little sharing of experiences between states regarding the measures required, or on good practice in addressing crimes of sexual violence. There needs to be a coordinated effort on strategies within the security sector to prevent and respond to sexual violence in armed conflict and in post-conflict security sector reform.

Author: Megan Bastick | Karen Grimm Source: Bastick, M., Grimm, K. and Kunz, R. (2007). 'Sexual violence in armed conflict - global overview and implications for the security sector', Geneva: DCAF. Size: 216 pages ()
Expanded document summary and link to full article

Highly politicised and unaccountabe security sectors in fragile states fuel the demand for small arms and light weapons (SALW).This paper, published by Project Ploughshares, analyses the cyclical nature of security sectors and violent conflict, and suggests measures to improve accountability and reduce the demand for SALW. While SSR can be the driving force in establishing secuirty sector accountability, increased public participation would also reduce the demand for SALW and increase the chances for sustainable reform.

Author: Dominick Donald | Funmi Olonisakin Source: Donald, D. and Olonisakin, F. (2007). 'Security sector reform and the demand for small arms and light weapons', Project Ploughshares briefing 01/07. Size: 3 pages (27 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

Girls within armed groups have generally been neglected by scholars, governments and policymakers. This Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) paper traces the experiences of girls in armed conflict in Angola, Sierra Leone, Mozambique and Uganda. It finds that girls in fighting forces are rendered invisible and marginalised during and after conflict, although they are fundamentally important to armed groups. They experience victimisation, perpetration and insecurity, but are also active agents and resisters.

Author: Myriam Denov Source: Denov, M., 2007, 'Girls in Fighting Forces: Moving Beyond Victimhood', Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) Size: 41 pages (680 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

Is the privatisation of public security a viable alternative to multilateral conflict management? This study suggests that there are legitimate roles for private military contractors (PMCs) and private security companies (PSCs). However, these companies have often exacerbated conflicts, facilitated human rights abuses and hampered the consolidation of African states. Rather than promoting PSCs and PMCs, the international community should empower UN and the institutions of conflict resolution that are being put in place by African countries themselves.

Author: Mpako H Foaleng Source: Foaleng, M.H. (2007). 'Private military and security companies and the nexus between natural resources and civil wars in Africa', in Gumedze, S. (Ed.) (2007) 'Private Security in Africa: Manifestation, Challenges and Regulation', ISS Monograph Series No 139, November 2007, Institute for Security Studies, South Africa, pp. 39-56. Size: 18 pages (968KB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

Private military and security companies are associated with mercenaries. This mistaken labelling undermines the useful work they do, according to research from the Institute for Security Studies. The increased use of private companies in peace operations has become a fact of life. They assist the international community in ending suffering in some of the world's most brutal conflicts. It is important, therefore, that the positive contributions of the private sector are openly supported within a robust, legal and ethical framework.

Author: J J Messner Source: Messner, J.J. (2007). 'Ethical security: The private sector in peace and stability operations', in Gumedze, S. (Ed.) (2007) 'Private Security in Africa: Manifestation, Challenges and Regulation', ISS Monograph Series No 139, November 2007, Institute for Security Studies, South Africa, pp. 57-70. Size: 12 pages (968KB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

Many people believe that private security companies (PSCs) and private military contractors (PMCs) operate in a legal vacuum in conflict zones. This is not true, according to research from the Institute for Security Studies. In all armed conflict, international humanitarian law (IHL) applies. It provides a legal framework to protect civilians from the effects of the hostilities. As many PSCs and PMCs come into contact with people protected by IHL, it is essential for them to know and respect this body of law.

Author: Jamie Williamson | Sabelo Gumedze (ed.) Source: Williamson, J. (2007). 'Private security companies and private military companies under international humanitarian law', in Gumedze, S. (Ed.) (2007) 'Private Security in Africa: Manifestation, Challenges and Regulation', ISS Monograph Series No 139, November 2007, Institute for Security Studies, South Africa, pp. 89-96. Size: 7 pages (968KB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

Does international humanitarian law (IHL) define private security contractors as civilians or combatants in armed conflict? This study, from the Institute of Security Studies, shows that the distinction between civilian and combatant hinges on the notion of 'direct participation in hostilities'. This principle is poorly defined in the law and there are few judicial decisions to clarify it. Nevertheless, private security contractors must know their rights and responsibilities under IHL otherwise they could lose their legal protection or be liable to criminal prosecution.

Author: Katherine Fallah Source: Fallah, K. (2007). 'Regulating private security contractors in armed conflicts', in Gumedze, S. (Ed.) (2007) 'Private Security in Africa: Manifestation, Challenges and Regulation', ISS Monograph Series No 139, November 2007, Institute for Security Studies, South Africa, pp. 97-123. Size: 26 pages (968KB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How can the international community control the services of private security companies (PSCs) and private military contractors (PMCs)? This paper reports on an intergovernmental dialogue initiated by the Swiss government, in collaboration with the International Committee for the Red Cross. It discussed ways to promote respect for international humanitarian law (IHL) in the operation of trans-national PMCs/PSCs in conflict areas. It concluded that international legal obligations must not be circumvented by states through the use of PMCs/ PSCs. Violations of international law by PMCs/PSCs could become the contracting state's responsibility.

Author: Markus Dutly Source: Dutly, M. (2007). 'The Swiss Initiative on private military and security companies', in Gumedze, S. (Ed.) (2007) 'Private Security in Africa: Manifestation, Challenges and Regulation', ISS Monograph Series No 139, November 2007, Institute for Security Studies, South Africa, pp. 171-184. Size: 5 pages (986KB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

Why are Lebanese and international efforts failing to stem the flow of weapons into Lebanon? Does the Lebanese government lack the capacity, or the will, to control its borders? This article, by the Royal United Services Institute for Defence and Security Studies, argues that Hizbullah's political ascendancy and its re-emergence as the party of resistance will ensure Hizbullah retains an armed capacity. Furthermore, the Lebanese government, regional governments and the UN are reluctant to disarm the resistance. This will hamper efforts to increase Lebanon's border monitoring capacity.

Author: Alistair Harris Source: Harris, A. 2007, 'Bordering on the Impossible: Securing Lebanon's Borders with Syria', in RUSI Journal, Oct 2007, Vol. 152, No. 5, pp. 40-44. Size: 5 pages (161 kb)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

What do Palestinians think about the Security Sector Reform (SSR) process in the Palestinian Territories? How would they like to see their security sector evolve? This book, by the Geneva Centre for the Democratic Control of Armed Forces, offers Palestinian perspectives on security sector governance and highlights ways to begin reform. It argues that if international assistance is to promote stability it needs a better understanding of Palestinian security needs as well as Palestinian views of the achievements and challenges of SSR, and a supportive environment.

Author: Roland Friedrich (ed.) | Arnold Luethold (ed.) Source: Friedrich, R. & Luethold, A. (Eds.), 2007, 'Entry-Points to Palestinian Security Sector Reform', DCAF, Geneva, Switzerland Size: 180 pages ()
Expanded document summary and link to full article

Why do cluster munitions pose a particular hazard to civilians during hostilities and post-conflict reconstruction? How can the international community deal with these hazards? This guide by the Geneva Centre for Humanitarian Demining provides practical information on addressing the impact of unexploded cluster munitions on civilians. Cluster munitions, by design, deliver submunitions over a wide area and are a specific post-conflict hazard to settled and returnee populations. The Oslo Declaration commits states to prohibiting cluster weapons, providing adequate assistance to victims, and decontaminating affected areas.

Author: Davide Orifici Source: Geneva International Centre for Humanitarian Demining, 2007, 'A Guide to Cluster Munitions', GICHD, Geneva Size: 93 pages (4.2 MB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How successful was the South African Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) in dealing with the past conflict and human rights abuses of the apartheid era? What lessons can be learned in using TRCs in other countries? This paper by the Institute for Strategic Studies, South Africa, analyses the limitations as well as the successes of the South African TRC. Many regard South Africa's TRC as a model transitional justice approach However, the moral, political and legal questions generated by it remain debated. TRCs should be seen as important building blocks within more comprehensive frameworks for societal transformation, not ends in themselves.

Author: Kisiangani Emmanuel Source: Emmanuel, K., 2007, 'Between principle and pragmatism in transitional justice: South Africa's TRC and peace building', ISS Paper 156, Institute for Security Studies, Pretoria Size: 20 pages (392 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How has the nature of violence changed in the post-Cold War era? What can be done to stop, or at least reduce, the potential for increased violence? This policy paper for the Geneva Centre for the Democratic Control of Armed Forces (DCAF) presents a variety of different perspectives on recent trends in conflict and security. Non-traditional warfare is on the increase, and in the form of terrorism and international crime poses an increasingly complex challenge. Violence has diversified and the potential for it increased. A holistic perspective is needed for both analysis and response.

Author: Alyson Bailes | Keith Krause Source: Bailes, A., Krause, K., and Winkler, T., 2007, 'The Shifting Face of Violence', Geneva Centre for the Democratic Control of Armed Forces, Geneva Size: 50 pages (380 KB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How can issues of donor incoherence and a lack of local ownership around security sector reform (SSR) be addressed in the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS)? This Geneva Centre for the Democratic Control of Armed Forces (DCAF) policy paper argues that a common ECOWAS agenda would help resolve such issues. It examines the rationale, opportunities and challenges of a common ECOWAS agenda and highlights the challenges and constraints a common agenda faces.

Author: Adedeji Ebo Source: Ebo, A., 2007, 'Towards a Common ECOWAS Agenda on Security Sector Reform', DCAF, Geneva Size: 33 pages (239 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

Civil unrest reduces potential for economic growth and poverty reduction. But what triggers civil unrest in society and how can it be prevented? This paper from the Households in Conflict Network analyses the comparative merits of redistributive transfers in preventing and reducing civil unrest. In the medium-term, redistributive transfers are more successful and cost-effective than more direct intervention. Policing is at best a short-term strategy and may, in the longer term, trigger further social discontent.

Author: Patricia Justino Source: Justin, P., 2007, 'Carrot or stick? Redistributive Transfers Versus Policing in Contexts of Civil Unrest', HiCN Working Paper 33, Institute of Development Studies, Brighton Size: 2 pages (40KB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

What lessons can the learned from the 2003 peace process in Liberia? This Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue article aims to record the dynamics, actors and elements that determined how and why many of the key decisions were taken that resulted in the 2003 peace agreement. It argues that leaving questions of justice, accountability and the rule of law open for the future may be the optimal approach to negotiating peace.

Author: Priscilla Hayner Source: Hayner, P., 2007, 'Negotiating peace in Liberia: Preserving the Possibility for Justice', Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue and the International Center for Transitional Justice, Geneva Size: 32 pages (185KB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

Afghans see their police more as a source of fear than security. But Afghanistan needs a police service not a police force. This research by International Crisis Group argues that policing goes to the very heart of state-building since a national institution that provides security and justice is central to government legitimacy. Police reform should focus on accountability, ethnic representation and professionalism. It should also depoliticise and institutionalise appointments and procedures. The police should not be used to fight the insurgency.

Author: International Crisis Group Source: International Crisis Group, 2007, 'Reforming Afghanistan's Police', Asia Report N°138, International Crisis Group, Brussels/Kabul Size: 35 pages (731 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

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)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How is Burundi's security sector reform progressing? How well are international partners helping to create a sustainable peace and protect civilians through effective security sector reform? This paper, by The North-South Institute and the Centre d'Alerte et de Prévention des Conflits, assesses international contributions to police reform, transformation of the military and civilian disarmament in Burundi. The paper draws on the results of a population survey on perceptions of security and priorities for reform of the security sector. On the basis of these survey results and extensive interviews, the paper argues that the range of international initiatives designed to support national efforts to reform the police and the military and to disarm the population could make an important contribution if a number of keys gaps in the areas of training and enforcement, consultation, coordination and oversight are addressed.

Author: Kristiana Powell Source: Powell, K., 2007, 'Security Sector Reform and the Protection of Civilians in Burundi: Accomplishments, Dilemmas and Ideas for International Engagement', CENAP/NSI Working Paper, The North-South Institute, Ottawa Size: 52 pages (523KB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How is security sector reform progressing in Burundi? Are the principles of the Arusha peace agreement being applied? This paper, by the Centre d'Alerte et de Prévention des Conflits (CENAP) and the North-South Institute, looks at how the principles of the Arusha Agreement and the other agreements governing Burundi's peace process are being applied. It suggests that despite significant progress in security sector reform, many challenges remain in terms of operational weaknesses, lack of training and lack of logistical and material resources.

Author: Willy Nindorera Source: Nindorera, W, 2007, 'Security Sector Reform in Burundi: Issues and Challenges for Improving Civilian Protection', CENAP/NSI Working Paper, Centre d'Alerte et de Prévention des Conflicts (CENAP), Bujumbura, and The North-South Institute, Ottawa. Size: 49 pages (480KB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

What are the challenges facing justice reform in Haiti? What lessons have been learned from the failed interventions of the 1990s? This policy briefing from the International Crisis Group examines Haiti's justice system, efforts at reform and the security crisis. It argues that Haitians and international donors need to review past failures and devise, fund and implement a comprehensive rule-of-law strategy. Building a sustainable criminal justice system will require both short-term actions to address the current crisis and longer-term institution-building.

Author: www.crisisgroup.org Source: International Crisis Group, 2007, 'Haiti: Justice Reform and the Security Crisis', Latin America/Caribbean Briefing N°14, 31 January 2007, International Crisis Group, Port-au-Prince/Brussels Size: 16 pages (204 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How can an independent Palestinian state be made successful? This RAND Corporation book explores the options for structuring the institutions of a future Palestinian state - with a focus on governance and internal security - so as to promote the state's chances of success. A new Palestinian state will need to be characterised by good governance, with state legitimacy a key factor. Also, Palestine's internal security will require assistance from the US and the international community.

Author: RAND Source: The RAND Palestinian State Study Team, 2007, 'Building a Successful Palestinian State', RAND, USA Size: 453 pages (2.81MB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

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 ()
Expanded document summary and link to full article

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 ()
Expanded document summary and link to full article

High levels of violence in Brazil's urban centres, exacerbated by a lack of long-term security policy making, continues to put both citizens and security forces at risk. This report, published by Amnesty International (AI), updates its campaign to focus attention on and generate action to improve Brazil's response to widespread corruption, organised crime and street violence. Brazil's federal and state authorities must put forward detailed, long-term plans to stop urban bloodshed and reverse the country's slide into further lawlessness.

Author: www.amnesty.org Source: Amnesty International, 2007, 'Brazil: From Burning Buses to Caveirões': the Search for Human Security', Amnesty International, London Size: 30 pages (1.2 MB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How can Iraq learn from Mexico's attempts to mount new policing operations and restore order after the 1910 Revolution? This study by the Crisis States Research Centre describes how the challenges of policing regime change in post-dictatorship Mexico laid the foundation for descent into chaos. When new regimes have been born out of violent conflict it is unwise to rush into constitutional reforms that give police power. In Iraq, building state institutions and making them accountable is likely to work better than constitutionally enhancing police powers.

Author: Diane E. Davis Source: Davis, D., 2007, 'Policing, Regime Change, and Democracy: Reflections from the Case of Mexico', Crisis States Working Paper No : 22 (series 2),London School of Economics, London Size: 27 pages (196KB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

In 1999, the Colombian state was on the verge of collapse. Illegal armed groups were on the point of taking power and the state was losing control. How did Colombia get out of this crisis? This report, from the Center for Strategic and International Studies, assesses the progress that Colombia has made during the last eight years. It argues that although problems related to a longstanding tradition of weak government remain, Colombia's gains since 1999 have been extraordinary.

Author: Peter DeShazo | Tanya Primiani Source: DeShazo, P. et al, 2007, 'Back from the Brink: Evaluating Progress in Colombia, 1999-2007', Americas Program, Center for Strategic and International Studies, Washington Size: 68 pages (1.1 MB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

Many international organisations are involved in security sector reform (SSR) in South Eastern Europe. This paper by the Geneva Centre for the Democratic Control of the Armed Forces (DCAF) argues that with so many similar mandates, coordination is essential to avoid duplication. With the new complexity of civilian and military peacebuilding and post-conflict reconstruction, there is an urgent need to coordinate across departmental and organisational divides. Failure to do so will jeopardise the prospects for creating stable, democratic and sustainable security institutions in South Eastern Europe.

Author: Ursula Schroeder Source: Schroeder, U., 2007, 'Between Conflict and Cooperation: International Police Reform Efforts in South Eastern Europe' in Intergovernmental Organisations and Security Sector Reform, ed. D. Law, DCAF, Geneva, pp. 197-218 Size: 21 pages (1.06MB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How effective has the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) been in leading Afghanistan towards security sector reform (SSR)? This paper by the Geneva Centre for the Democratic Control of Armed Forces looks at efforts to build transparent, effective and democratically controlled Afghan national defence and security institutions. NATO was late in making a serious contribution to SSR in Afghanistan and there are problems of transparency and sensitivities among other international actors. However, these need not preclude a more robust cooperation agenda among international organisations and a coordinated diplomatic approach vis-à-vis the Afghan Government.

Author: Candace Karp | Richard Ponzio Source: Karp, C. and Ponzio, R., 2007, 'NATO, SSR and Afghanistan' in Intergovernmental Organisations and Security Sector Reform, ed. D. Law, DCAF, Geneva, pp. 219-238 Size: 19 pages (1.06MB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

To what extent might security sector reform help prevent, contain or defeat terrorism? This paper by the Danish Institute for International Studies looks at various approaches to counterterrorism, distinguishing between prevention, active defence and passive defence. It also considers different settings of reform - in the West and in developing countries. It argues that whatever links there may be between SSR and counterterrorism these are likely to be concrete and context-specific. Particular elements of Security Sector Reform (SSR) may be useful against specific forms of terrorism under specific conditions.

Author: Bjorn Moller Source: Danish Institute for International Studies, 2007, 'Security Sector Reform and the Fight Against Terrorism', DIIS Report 2007:12, DIIS, Copenhagen Size: 38 pages (999.5KB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

The Central African Republic (CAR) has all the problems of a state emerging from prolonged conflict. How can its challenges best be met? This study from the World Bank argues that the political process since elections in 2005 offers an opportunity for security sector reform in CAR, but there needs to be continued support from key international partners. Reform could contribute to ending the recurring political role of the armed forces, while making the sector better equipped to deal with current and future security challenges.

Author: Boubacar N'Diaye Source: N'Diaye, B., 2007, 'Beyond Demobilization: Challenges and Opportunities for Security Sector Reform in the Central African Republic', Working Paper No. 2, May 2007, Multi-Country Demobilisation and Reintegration Programme, The World Bank Size: 40 pages (2.16MB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How can the Liberian parliament gain greater oversight of its security sector? This King's College London report highlights the outcomes of a workshop held in Accra, Ghana to assess the authority, ability, and attitude of the Liberian legislature to conduct security sector oversight. It is essential that the necessary support is provided to the Liberian legislature so that as the constitutional custodian of the security sector it efficiently undertakes its vital role.

Author: Eka Ikpe Source: DCAF, 2007, 'Interactive Needs Assessment for Security Sector Oversight for Liberian Legislature', 28-30 March 2007 at Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre, Accra, Ghana Size: 37 pages (238 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

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)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How successful has post-conflict peacebuilding in Liberia been? This Centre for International Peace Operations (ZIF) report outlines the findings of an international seminar held in Accra, Ghana to assess peacebuilding since the establishment of the United Nations Mission in Liberia (UNMIL) in September 2003. There has been significant progress in stabilising the country but there remain many loose ends. Setbacks could yet destabilise the country and even lead to renewed conflict.

Author: Tobias von Gienanth | Thomas Jaye Source: KAIPTC/ZIF, 2007, 'Post-Conflict Peacebuilding in Liberia', Report of the Third Annual KAIPTC / ZIF Seminar Accra, Ghana November 1 - 3, 2007, Berlin Size: 127 pages (408 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

What role does local government (LG) play in post-conflict reconstruction? What are the key issues for local government in post-conflict (PC) contexts? This paper, published by the United Nations Development Programme, reviews the literature on local government in post-conflict environments. There is a lack of research on LG in PC environments. Further research is required on the role of LG in conflict prevention, service delivery and establishing security, and on building LG legitimacy. LG is either a stabilising or exacerbating factor in PC contexts. Donors must recognise the significance of LG and engage with LG in PC environments.

Author: Paul Jackson | Zoe Scott Source: Jackson, P. and Scott, Z., 2008, 'Local Government in Post-Conflict Environments', paper commissioned for the Workshop on Local Government in Post-Conflict Situations: Challenges for Improving Local Decision Making and Service Delivery Capacities, Oslo, Norway, 28-29 November 2007, UNDP Size: 34 pages (400 KB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How can Nigeria stop the violence and proliferation of small arms in the Niger Delta? This paper, by the Small Arms Survey, looks at the causes of armed violence in Nigeria, surveying the different armed groups and types of weapons involved. It argues that a key element of addressing insecurity and armed violence is comprehensive security sector reform. A political solution is the only way to resolve the rising armed violence.

Author: Jennifer M. Hazen | Jonas Horner Source: Hazen, J., 2007, 'Small Arms, Armed Violence, and Insecurity in Nigeria: The Niger Delta in Perspective', Occasional Paper No. 20, Small Arms Survey, Geneva Size: 88 pages (1.1 MB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

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)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

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)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

What are the challenges of security sector (SSR) reform in West Africa? This Institute of Security Studies paper argues that challenges range from the concept of security to the freedom from dependency on the West in terms of strategic thinking and funding. The SSR agenda must concentrate on public safety, especially in urban areas. This will form a solid foundation for the internal stability that is needed for political, social and economic development.

Author: Ishola Williams Source: Williams, I., 2007, 'The Challenges of Security Sector Reform in West Africa', 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. 37-50 Size: 14 pages (107 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

This chapter in Justice as Prevention examines two approaches to personnel vetting in Bosnia and Herzegovina following the 1995 Dayton Peace Agreement. It examines UN efforts to screen and certify the police, and the reappointment of judges and prosecutors by the High Judicial and Prosecutorial Councils (HJPC). It argues that efforts to build public institutions to prevent the recurrence of abuses should generally not be limited to excluding abusers, but requires comprehensive institutional reform, including a full review of personnel.

Author: Alexander Mayer-Rieckh Source: Mayer-Rieckh, A., 2007, 'Vetting to Prevent Future Abuses: Reforming the Police, Courts, and Prosecutor's Offices in Bosnia and Herzegovina', Chapter 5 in Justice as Prevention: Vetting Public Employees in Transitional Societies, A. Mayer-Rieckh and P. de Greiff, (eds.), Social Science Research Council, New York Size: 41 pages (224KB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

What assistance do East African states require to effectively address the illicit trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW)? What are the challenges facing such SALW assistance? Drawing on a case study of East Africa, this report from the UN Institute for Disarmament Research (UNIDIR) discusses international assistance for implementing the UN Programme of Action (UNPoA) on the Illicit Trade in SALW. It finds that while East African states are acting against the illicit SALW trade, lack of capacity means that long-term success cannot be assured. A strong administrative and governing sector is essential to sustain the benefits of any initiative to address the illicit trade in SALW and to deter the types of SALW crime that flourish as a result of weak infrastructure. International assistance and improving the allocation and coordination of that assistance to address SALW is necessary to make sure that East African states' efforts are not in vain.

Author: Kerry Maze | Hyunjoo Rhee Source: Maze,K.,Rhee,H., 2007, 'International Assistance for Implementing the UN Programme of Action on the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in All Its Aspects: Case Study of East Africa' , Report prepared for the United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research (UNIDIR) Size: 44 pages (504 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How can sustainable peace be achieved in the Horn of Africa? This paper by the Institute for Security Studies argues that Security Sector Reform (SSR) is central to stability in the Horn. But any SSR strategy must be based on a thorough understanding of the regional and national contexts. This will require all stakeholders to work in a participative manner. Crude, incomplete analyses are unproductive and can undermine the whole process of reform.

Author: Medhane Tadesse Source: Tadesse, M., 2007, 'Overcoming Challenges for Security Sector Reform in the Horn of Africa', in Len le Roux and Yemane Kidane (eds) Challenges to Security Sector Reform in the Horn of Africa, Monograph No 135, Institute for Security Studies, Pretoria Size: 15 pages (100KB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

The pastoral Karamoja region of Uganda today is marked by a culture of guns, under-development, little government presence and a nearly complete lack of law and order. This report, published by Tufts University, examines the region's pattern of guns and violence and the failure of recent attempts to disarm the Karamoja people. Governments and the international community must stop proposingsolutions based on ignorance of the ecology, livelihoods and culture of the Karamoja.

Author: Darlington Akabwai | Priscillar E. Ateyo Source: Akabwai, D. and Atevo, P.E., 2007, The scramble for cattle, power and guns in Karamoja: How can stability be established in the Karamoja region, Uganda?, Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy, Tufts University Size: 49 pages (1.55 KB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

Why has statebuilding in Somalia failed so often? This research from Davidson College suggests that the problem lies in the type of state that both external and local actors have so far sought to construct. Somalia needs to develop a mediated state in which a central government with limited power and capacity relies on a range of local authorities to execute core functions of government and mediate between local communities and the state.

Author: Ken Menkhaus Source: Menkahus, K., 2007, Governance without Government in Somalia: Spoilers, State Building, and the Politics of Coping, International Security, Vol. 31, No. 3, pp. 74-106 Size: 33 pages (361KB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

While assumptions based on ethnic ties and availability of small arms suggest otherwise, arms trade between the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and South Sudan is modest. This Small Arms Survey report explores the influence of history, geography and recent conflict on the small arms trade on the border between the DRC and Sudan. Despite the current low demand for weapons, experience has shown that border communities remain vulnerable to the spillover effects of conflict and armed groups.

Author: Joshua Marks | Small Arms Survey Source: Marks, J., 2007, Border in Name Only: Arms Trafficking and Armed Groups at the DRC-Sudan Border, The Human Security Baseline Assessment, Small Arms Survey, Geneva Size: 23 pages (1.33 KB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

The totalitarian dictatorship that prevails in Eritrea does not permit a direct entry point for the implementation of security sector reform (SSR). This paper, published by the Institute for Security Studies, discusses current country conditions that impede SSR, regional security issues and examines Eritrean opposition as a possible SSR entry point. The best method for laying the groundwork for SSR in Eritrea is to advance democratic change internally, accompanied by international pressure for democratic elections.

Author: Herui T Bairu | Institute for Security Studies Source: Bairu, H., 2007, 'The security situation in Eritrea: Its implications for the region and its challenges to security sector reform', in L. Le Roux and Y. Kidane (eds), Challenges to Security Sector Reform in the Horn of Africa, Institute for Security Studies, Monograph Series, No. 135, Pretoria, pp. 53-74 Size: 96 pages (470.6 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

What factors have influenced the reintegration into society of ex-combatants from the National Union for the Total Independence of Angola (UNITA)? This monograph from the Institute for Security Studies assesses the reintegration of ex-UNITA combatants in three of the most contested provinces in Angola's civil war. It examines the relationship between reintegration, on the one had, and vulnerability, identity, social capital, sustainable livelihoods and political participation, on the other.

Author: J Gomes Porto | Imogen Parsons Source: Porto J.G., Parsons I., Alden C., 2007, 'From Soldiers to Citizens - The Social, Economic and Political Integration of UNITA Ex-Combatants', Monograph 130, Instutute for Security Studies Size: 171 pages (1.21 MB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

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)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

Minority issues lie at the heart of many of the world's conflicts. Yet minority rights are often marginalised in peace processes and conflict prevention programmes. This study, by the Minority Rights Group, looks at Chechnya, Darfur, Kashmir, Kosovo and Sri Lanka. Understanding the warning signs provided by minority rights violations could prevent conflicts. Groups should not be separated along ethnic, religious or linguistic lines as a way of creating peace, as such divisions can entrench old hatreds and wounds in the long term.

Author: Clive Baldwin | Chris Chapman Source: Baldwin, C., Chapman, C. and Gray, Z., 2007, 'Minority Rights: The Key to Conflict Prevention'. Minority Rights Group International (MRG), Minority Rights Report, UK Size: 44 pages (435 KB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

Is the UK government's response to violent conflict appropriate? Is it effective in helping warring parties create lasting peace agreements? This study by Conciliation Resources suggests that there are conceptual, policy, institutional and practice gaps in the UK's responses to violent conflict. The government should direct more of its diplomatic, political and economic resources to the resolution and prevention of conflict through increasing and improving support for peace processes.

Author: Dr Catherine Barnes Source: Barnes,C., 2007, 'Bridging the gap: Improving UK support for peace processes', Conciliation Resources, London, UK Size: 762 pages (40)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

Under what conditions can "track-two" mediation conducted by non-governmental actors contribute to the prevention of violence in intrastate conflicts? This paper, published by the Institute for Development and Peace, presents results of a case study of two intrastate mediation processes conducted by track-two mediators in Aceh. Results indicate that track-two mediation has the potential to prevent violent intrastate conflict as long as mediators enjoy political expertise and moral leverage.

Author: Barbara Kemper Source: Kemper, B., 2007, 'Mediation in Intrastate Conflicts: The Contribution of Track-Two Mediation Activities to Prevent Violence in the Aceh Conflict', INEF Report no. 88, Institute for Development and Peace, INEF, University of Duisburg-Essen, Duisburg Size: 60 pages (705KB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

What are the key challenges for peacekeeping operations? How might these be overcome? This paper from the International Peace Academy argues that peacekeeping should be thought of as a strategic tool, rather than a strategy, since it is not an end in itself. Many current peacekeeping missions are expected to carry out a mixture of protection, peacebuilding, and counter-insurgency. They require hybrid approaches that need to be better coordinated. A doctrine for 'peace enforcement' as the use of robust force for limited purposes must be developed.

Author: Richard Gowan | Ian Johnstone Source: Gowan, R. and Johnstone, I., 2007, 'New Challenges for Peacekeeping: Protection, Peacebuilding and the "War on Terror"', Working Paper, Coping with Crisis series, International Peace Academy Size: 26 pages (1.16MB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

The India-Brazil-South Africa (IBSA) initiative can play a crucial role in South-South cooperation in addressing conventional non-traditional security threats in the contemporary global order. This essay, published by the Centre for Policy Studies-Johannesburg, examines the challenges facing South Africa in its efforts to secure regional security and as an IBSA contributor. South Africa's future leadership role will depend upon the ability of regional political elites to balance addressing international and regional obligations while responding to critical domestic issues.

Author: M. Soko | Centre for Policy Studies-Johannesburg Source: Soko, M., 2007, 'IBSA Regional Security Dimensions: The South African Perspective', Policy: Issues and Actors, vol, 20, no. 6, Centre for Policy Studies, Johannesburg Size: 22 pages (294 kB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

In the aftermath of the 2006 Israeli-Hezbollah War in Lebanon, the Gulf States and Jihad Al Bina, Hezbollah's reconstruction wing, undertook significant post-war reconstruction activities. This article from Conflict, Security and Development examines the extent to which these reconstruction activities constitute an alternative to the liberal peace. While they do not have the critical mass or ambition to constitute a fully-fledged alternative, they reveal limitations in the liberal peace approach to reconstruction.

Author: Roger MacGinty Source: MacGinty, R. 2007. 'Reconstructing Post-War Lebanon: A Challenge to the Liberal Peace?', Conflict, Security & Development, vol. 7, no. 3, pp.457 - 482 Size: 27 pages (184 KB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

How can economy-related activities help to address the factors that undermine sustainable peace? This report from International Alert centres on economic recovery in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Efforts are needed to promote job creation and shared income-generating opportunities, as well as to address the drivers of conflict and fragility, if long-term economic recovery is to be realised. In order to ensure that assistance contributes positively to transformational peacebuilding, donors must be prepared to bear high transaction costs, particularly in terms of staff on the ground and longer time frames.

Author: International Alert Source: International Alert, 2007, 'Peacebuilding in Eastern DRC: Improving EU Support for Economic Recovery', International Alert, London Size: 32 pages (368 KB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

What impact do acts of terror have on cities in the global South? This paper examines the largely negative implications of terrorist activities for development and the potential of cities for propelling reconstruction and peace-building. While specific challenges faced by cities of the South cannot be under-estimated, urban terrorism is breaking down any sense of a rigid binary between the 'developed' and 'developing' worlds. The 'them' and 'us' attitude is misleading and damaging to both development co-operation and global security.

Author: Jo Beall Source: Beall, J., 2007, 'Cities, Terrorism and Urban Wars of the 21st Century', Working Paper, no. 9, Crisis States Research Centre, London Size: 22 pages (202 KB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

Can civil society organisations play a role in building citizenship and confronting violent actors and acts of violence? This Institute of Development Studies Working Paper argues that they can, and explores civil society participation in Colombia and Gutamela. Building citizenship in chronic violence contexts requires simultaneous attention to citizenship and to violence, and it is also important to clarify the relationship between power and violence.

Author: Jenny Pearce Source: Pearce, J. (2007). 'Violence, Power and Participation: Building Citizenship in Contexts of Chronic Violence', IDS Working Paper 274, Institute of Development Studies Size: 66 pages (560KB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

Terrorism is an urban phenomenon, with states undergoing rapid urbanisation under an increased risk. Historically youth bulges, in conjunction with rapid urbanisation, has been an important contributor to political violence; especially where unemployment and poverty exist. The existence of youth bulges significantly increases the risk of conflict. However, no thorough review exists over government targeted programmes aimed at mitigating the security risk posed by youth bulges. More research is therefore required over youth bulges, political violence and remedial policies; particularly in regards to urban settings.

Author: Henrik Urdal Source: Urdal, H., 2007, 'The Demographics of Political Violence: Youth Bulges, Insecurity and Conflict' in Too Poor for Peace? Global Poverty, Conflict and Security in the 21st Century, eds. L. Brainard and D. Chollet, Brookings Institution Press, Washington, DC, pp. 90-100 Size: 11 pages (79.5)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

If the Proliferation Security Initiative (PSI) attracts more participation from Asian Pacific states, it could be an increasingly significant factor in the region's maritime security cooperation. This Institute of Strategic and International Studies paper analyses the PSI as a deterrent to sea transport of weapons of mass destruction (WMD) in the Asia Pacific. The PSI also requires an integrated, collective commitment to manage an effective response to the challenge of WMD transport by sea.

Author: Stanley Byron Weeks Source: Leong S., 2007, 'Maritime Security in Southeast Asia: Addressing the Concerns', in 'Peace in the Pacific: Confronting the Issues', in 'Peace in the Pacific: confronting the issues', Institute of Strategic and International Studies (ISIS) Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur: pp.191-248. Size: 30 pages ()
Expanded document summary and link to full article

What kind of conflict resolution approaches can effectively address intra-state wars based on identity? Liberal peace models were designed to deal with inter-state conflicts, and when applied to inter-ethnic conflicts bring limited success and often disastrous results. This article from the African Journal on Conflict Resolution argues that identities should be seen as key assets in building sustainable peace, justice and reconciliation. Regional peace and security mechanisms and traditional justice approaches should be used and international justice mechanisms approached with caution.

Author: Gerard Hagg | Peter Kagwanja Source: Hagg, G. and Kagwanja, P., 2007, 'Identity and Peace: Reconfiguring Conflict Resolution in Africa', African Journal on Conflict Resolution, Special Issue on Identity and Cultural Diversity in Conflict Resolution in Africa, vol. 7, no. 2, pp. 9-36 Size: 27 pages (1.3 MB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

To what extent have peace agreements incorporated mechanisms for dealing with justice issues? This study from the Centre for Humanitarian dialogue analyses 77 verified peace processes from around the world between 1980 and 2006. Negotiating justice is a complex and difficult process, especially within a peace agreement involving a whole range of additional issues.

Author: Dr Leslie Vinjamuri | Aaron P Boesenecker Source: Vinjamuri, L. and Boesenecker, A., 2007, 'Accountability and Peace Agreements: Mapping Trends from 1980 to 2006', Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue, Geneva Size: 56 pages (315 KB)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

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)
Expanded document summary and link to full article

The African Post-Conflict Reconstruction Policy Framework, developed by the New Partnership for Africa's Development (NEPAD) aims to ensure that the peace, security, humanitarian and development dim