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

What has been the impact in South Africa of the 'new security'? This article argues that the security-is-development thesis affects the functions of security agencies and is used to legitimate anti-democratic behaviour. In South Africa, a broad and deep vision of security promoted by inexperienced policymakers has contributed to the involvement of intelligence agents in domestic (often partisan) matters. An intellectual construct intended to critique state behaviour has thus become a tool of state power. Ultimately, all regime types define security in a self-interested, often anti-democratic way. A wide mandate in the hands of the state contains anti-democratic potential at least equal to that of a narrow understanding of security.

Author: Annette Seegers Source: Seegers, A., 2010, 'The New Security in Democratic South Africa: A Cautionary Tale', Conflict, Security and Development, vol. 10, no. 2, pp 263-285 Size: 23 pages (200 kB)
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What role does civil society play in security sector governance in Ukraine? This Almanac examines: the development of the National Security and Defence Council; Ukraine's place in the regional and global security structure; public debate on NATO in Ukraine; judicial reforms; the armed forces and law enforcement. Chapter three, summarised here, considers civilian control of defence and law enforcement agencies. Ukranian legislation assigns an important role to civil society organisations in this area. While some of these organisations make useful contributions, their activities sometimes display unwarranted intrusion, conflicting approaches, politicisation and unprofessionalism. Greater influence over personnel policy is needed, and the oversight of intelligence agencies must be addressed.

Author: Merle Maigre | Philipp Fluri Source: Maigre, M., and Fluri, P., 2010, 'Almanac on Security Sector Governance in Ukraine', DCAF Geneva Centre for the Democratic Control of Armed Forces, Geneva Size: 234 pages (4.77 MB)
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Is the government of Sudan abiding by its human rights commitments under the Comprehensive Peace Agreement 2005 and other regional and international agreements? This report catalogues a plethora of human rights abuses in Sudan. Without substantive changes in Sudan's national security laws and practices, the human rights situation will not improve. The government must repeal the repressive National Security Act 2010, ensure legislative and institutional reform of the National Intelligence and Security Services to bring its operations into line with international human rights standards, and establish judicial oversight.

Author: Amnesty International Source: Amnesty International, 2010, 'Agents of Fear: The National Security Service in Sudan', Amnesty International, London Size: 68 pages (639 kB)
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What is the role of intelligence services in Africa? What effect have changing security, political and normative dynamics had on this role? This publication from the African Security Sector Network and the Global Facilitation Network for Security Sector Reform examines the changing dynamics affecting intelligence services in Africa. It argues that intelligence services are significant players in Africa and that intelligence reform has invariably proceeded alongside broader political evolutions.

Author: Sandy Africa (ed.) | Johny Kwadjo (ed.) Source: Africa, S. (ed.), Kwadjo, J. (ed.), 2009, 'Changing intelligence dynamics in Africa', The Global Facilitation Network for Security Sector Reform (GFN-SSR), University of Birmingham, UK Size: 206 pages (518 kB)
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What is the role and function of the South African intelligence community in the security apparatus of the state? What is the relationship between intelligence and democracy? This collection of papers from the Institute for Security Studies evaluates how the South African intelligence community is grappling with the democratic demands of openness and accountability while maintaining the secrecy necessary for intelligence services to function effectively. It acknowledges that democratic control of the intelligence sector is a challenge even for mature democracies.

Author: Lauren Hutton (ed) Source: Hutton L., 2009, 'To spy or not to spy? Intelligence and democracy in South Africa', Institute for Security Studies (ISS) (Pretoria) Size: 116 pages (645KB)
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What is the Rajah Solaiman Movement? How did it emerge, develop and strengthen? Through the use of social movement theory to frame our analytical narrative, the authors examine how the demands and pressures of globalisation have helped to foment 'Balik Islam'. This Third World Quarterly article will reflect the possible extremes of Balik Islam by outlining the rise and fall of the Rajah Solaiman Movement, a Balik-Islam group. The article concludes that today's globalised world has constructed a set of circumstances, opportunities and challenges that creates significant new security problems for the governmental representatives of democratic states.

Author: Douglas Borer | Sean Everton Source: Borer D., Everton S., Jr M.N., 2009, 'Global Development and Human (In)security: Understanding the Rise of the Rajah Solaiman Movement and Balik Islam in the Philippines', Third World Quarterly, London: Vol. 30, Issue 1, pp 181 - 204 Size: 25 pages ()
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What lessons can be learned from the process of democratising Nepal's security sector and what are the challenges ahead? This edited volume examines the Nepali security sector in relation to: the legislature-parliament; the executive; security providers; security-related actors; and civil society and the media. It argues that security sector reform should be based on a holistic approach that incorporates all relevant security structures, institutions and actors. Security sector transformation (SST) is an important element of democratisation, peace-building, institutional reform and political legitimacy.

Author: Bishnu Sapkota Source: Sapkota B., (Ed.), 2009, 'The Nepali Security Sector: An Almanac', Geneva Centre for the Democratic Control of Armed Forces (DCAF), Geneva Size: 363 pages (2 MB)
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How is India reforming its security sector and what are the challenges facing security sector reform (SSR) in the country? There is no comprehensive single SSR process in India, but reforms are underway in all key security sectors. These reforms have their root in developments after India's nuclear tests in 1998. They are self-driven, reactive, and piecemeal. Integrated, comprehensive SSR based on a national strategic planning process is needed or the full benefits of reform will be lost.

Author: A. Mallika Joseph Source: Joseph A.M., 2009, 'Leading Ahead, Yet Far Behind: Governance of the Security Sector in India', South Asian Survey, Vol. 16, No. 2, pp. 231-251 Size: 20 pages (140 kB)
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How were the challenges of intelligence reform managed in Ghana's broader security sector reform process? This chapter finds that Ghana's intelligence reform was the result of an incremental, deliberate process of institution-building, personnel development and appropriate legislation. Ghana's security transformation was driven by political, economic and security conditions between 1981 and 2000, when a combination of donor pressure and local democracy advocacy groups created an enabling environment for reform. While a lack of clear policy guidelines for the security services has hindered the implementation of oversight, demand for parliamentary and civil society oversight of intelligence agencies has become part of public debate in Ghana.

Author: Johnny Kwadjo Source: Kwadjo, J., 2009, 'Changing the Intelligence Dynamics in Africa: The Ghana Experience', in Changing Intelligence Dynamics in Africa, eds. S. Africa and J. Kwadjo, GFN-SSR and ASSN, Birmingham, UK, pp. 95-124 Size: 29 pages (667 kB)
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In 2006 the police and army in Timor-Leste fought each other in the streets in a crisis that left both institutions in ruins. This report from the International Crisis Group analyses the challenges of reforming Timor-Leste's security institutions, focusing on the army and the police. To reform the security sector successfully, Timor-Leste's government must ensure an inclusive process by consulting widely and resisting the temptation to take autocratic decisions. Unless there is a non-partisan commitment to the reform process, structural problems are likely to remain unresolved and the security forces politicised and volatile.

Author: International Crisis Group Source: International Crisis Group, 2008, 'Timor-Leste: Security Sector Reform', International Crisis Group, Asia Report No 143, Brussels, Belgium Size: 32 pages (354 kB)
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What is the proper role of non-military intelligence services in a democracy? This review, published by South Africa's Ministerial Review Commission on Intelligence, examines the full range of civilian intelligence institutions in South Africa. The principal aim is to enhance control mechanisms of these organisations, bringing them into full compliance with rule of law and the Constitution. Although a number of key reforms have been made since the end of Apartheid, illegal conduct and abuses of power remain serious threats, given current structures.

Author: Laurie Nathan | Joe Matthews Source: Ginwala, F., Matthews, J. & Nathan, L., 2008, 'Intelligence in a Constitutional Democracy - Final Report to the Minister for Intelligence Services, 10 September 2008', Ministerial Review Commission on Intelligence in South Africa. Size: 303 pages (1.2 MB)
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What role have Serbia's intelligence agencies played in its democratisation since 2000? What does the Serbian experience demonstrate about civilian control of intelligence agencies and the role of the intelligence sector in democratisation? This article from Europe-Asia Studies examines the governance and reform of the Serbian intelligence agencies since the fall of Slobodan Milosevic. It argues that Serbia's intelligence agencies have played an important but complex role in Serbia's ongoing political transition.

Author: Timothy Edmunds Source: Edmunds, T., 2008, 'Intelligence Agencies and Democratisation: Continuity and Change in Serbia after Miloševiæ', Europe-Asia Studies, vol. 60, no. 1, pp. 25-48 Size: 24 pages ()
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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 ()
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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)
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How successful has security sector reform (SSR) been in Indonesia since 1998 and what challenges remain to be overcome? This Almanac, by the Indonesia Institute for Defence and Strategic Studies (LESPERSSI) and the Geneva Centre for the Democratic Control of Armed Forces (DCAF), maps out the institutional and societal actors in the Indonesian security sector. It then assesses the level of effective democratic parliamentary and civil society oversight of the security sector and identifies SSR needs in the short and long term.

Author: Beni Sukadis Source: Sukadis,B.(ed.), 2007, 'Almanac on Indonesian Security Sector Reform 2007', DCAF-Lesperssi, Bern. Size: 221 pages (4.43 MB)
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What security threats and challenges confront the European Union (EU)? How is the EU to deal with these threats and challenges? The 2003 European Security Strategy (ESS) set out the principles, priorities and procedures of how the EU intends to protect and promote its security. This article from European Security Review suggests that the ESS should be revised in light of the changing threats and challenges facing Europe. To become a genuine strategy the ESS should contain clear targets and objectives, and detailed action plans for their achievement.

Author: Stephen Pullinger Source: Pullinger,S., 2007, 'Revising the European Security Strategy: Building a secure Europe in a better world', in European Security Review 35, ISIS Europe, Brussels, Belgium Size: 5 pages (92 KB)
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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 ()
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How can democratic societies ensure that intelligence services are able to operate effectively while complying with democratic norms and standards? This book chapter from the Geneva Centre for the Democratic Control of Armed Forces examines the control and oversight of intelligence services in democratic states. It argues that security and intelligence agencies have special features that make effective control and oversight particularly challenging. Democratic oversight and accountability of intelligence services requires constant vigilance from the executive, legislature, judiciary and civil society.

Author: Hans Born | Marina Caparini Source: Caparini, M., 2007, 'Controlling and Overseeing Intelligence Services in Democratic States' in 'Democratic Control of Intelligence Services: Containing Rogue Elephants', Ashgate. Size: 22 pages (213 kB)
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In order to institutionalise democratically-based security sectors and achieve Euro-Atlantic integration, Western Balkan countries need to change their value systems substantially. This book, published by the Austrian Ministry of Defence and the Geneva Centre for Democratic Control of Armed Forces (DCAF) in cooperation with the Partnership for Peace Consortium, is an assessment of the status of security sector reform (SSR) in the Western Balkans. Despite legislative progress, all security institutions in the region need to be more transparent and accountable, and improve their policy formulation and implementation capacities.

Author: Anja H. Ebnöther | Philipp H. Fluri Source: Ebnöther, A.H., Fluri, P.H. and Jurekovic, P. (Eds.) (2007). 'Security Sector Governance in the Western Balkans: Self-Assessment Studies on Defence, Intelligence, Police and Border Management Reform', National Defence Academy, Bureau for Security Policy at the Austrian Ministry of Defence and DCAF in co-operation with PfP-Consortium of Defence Academies and Security Studies Institutes. Size: 492 pages (2.72 MB)
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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)
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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)
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What are the important features of intelligence governance in South Africa? Has South Africa managed to transform its intelligence sector into one that serves the state and society? This paper for the Institute for Security Studies analyses intelligence governance in South Africa. The post 1994 reforms of the intelligence sector were comprehensive. However, it is taking much longer to transform institutional culture and political environment owing to the legacy of the apartheid era and liberation struggle. Overcoming the subversion of intelligence for political and personal ends is the biggest challenge for the sector in democratic South Africa.

Author: Lauren Hutton Source: Hutton, L., 2007, 'Looking Beneath the Cloak: An Analysis of Intelligence Governance in South Africa', ISS Paper 154, Institute for Security Studies, Pretoria Size: 24 pages (484 kB)
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What is the experience of security sector reform in Latin America and the Caribbean since the return to democracy? What are the security reform issues specific to the region? This report by the Facultad Latinoamerica de Ciencias Sociales, Chile (FLACSO-Chile) analyses security policy and reform in defence, public security, and intelligence in 20 countries in Latin America and the Caribbean. It finds that security sector institutions have struggled to adapt to newly installed democratic regimes and operate in parallel to governments. Limiting their autonomy and using an integrated framework in considering reform is necessary to develop security institutions that support democracy.

Author: Lucia Dammert Source: FLACSO, 2007, 'Report on the Security Sector in Latin America and the Caribbean', FLACSO, Chile Size: 202 pages (1.6 MB)
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How can drug trafficking between the US and Mexico be reduced? This Washington Office of Latin America and Beckley Foundation Drug Policy Programme brief examines current and past drug policies implemented by the Mexican government and argues that government responses dominated by law enforcement and militarisation do little to address the issue in the long-term. The most effective way to address drug trafficking is through increased efforts to curb demand for illicit drugs in the United States and Mexico.

Author: Maureen Meyer | Coletta Youngers Source: Meyer, M., et al., 2007, 'At a Crossroads: Drug Trafficking, Violence and the Mexican State', WOLA & Beckley Foundation Drug Policy Programme, Washington DC Size: 12 pages (946 kB)
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What strategies is the Government of Jamaica planning to implement in order to establish a safe and secure environment? The Jamaican Government's National Security Policy sets out an agenda for a prosperous, democratic, peaceful and dynamic society, which upholds the fulfilment of human rights and builds social progress based on shared values and principles of partnership. It argues that for all Jamaicans to enjoy a better quality of life and realise their full potential, everyone must get involved.

Author: Ministry of National Security, Government of Jamaica Source: Government of Jamaica, 2007, 'National Security Policy for Jamaica: Towards a Secure and Prosperous Nation', Government of Jamaica, Kingston Size: 122 pages (399KB)
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This Austrian Ministry of Defence article examines police reform in the Republic of Montenegro. It argues that police reform did not start properly until 2001 and has always been primarily a political issue. The political sphere, however, failed to support police reform through consistent reform policies. The political elite of today's independent Montenegro have no more excuses, but to undertake the four 'Ds' - de-politicisation, de-militarisation, decriminalisation and de-centralisation of the police.

Author: Novak Gajic Source: Gajic, N., 2007, 'Police Reform in the Republic of Montenegro', in Security Sector Governance in the Western Balkans: Self-Assessment Studies on Defence, Intelligence, Police and Border Management Reform, eds. A. H. Ebnöther, P.H. Fluri, and P. Jurekovic, National Defence Academy, Bureau for Security Policy at the Austrian Ministry of Defence and DCAF in co-operation with PfP-Consortium of Defence Academies and Security Studies Institutes, pp. 409-445 Size: 30 pages (2784KB)
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What new challenges confront civilian crisis response programmes? How has the European Union's (EU's) response met these challenges? This paper from the Crisis Management Initiative outlines the new risks and opportunities faced by the crisis management community amid the proliferation in media coverage of worldwide crises. It argues that the EU's longstanding experience and wide-ranging capabilities leave it well-placed to contribute effectively to the increasingly important areas of peacekeeping and post-conflict reconstruction.

Author: K Rintakoski | M Setälä Source: Rintakoski, K., Setala, M. and Ricci, A., 2006, 'From Needs to Solutions: Enhancing the Civilian Crisis Management Capacity of the European Union', CMI, Helsinki Size: 9 pages (301 KB)
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Why has Security Sector Reform (SSR) emerged as a key area for research and policy? How has SSR research and practice evolved, particularly since the 9/11 attacks? What research efforts have been made in the area of SSR? This paper charts the emergence of the SSR policy agenda and examines how it has evolved over time. Critically, there is a disjuncture between SSR policy as articulated by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development's Development Assistance Committee (OECD-DAC), international security assistance programmes, and the needs of developing countries.

Author: Nicole Ball | Dylan Hendrickson Source: Ball, N. & Hendrickson, D., 2006, 'Trends in Security Sector Reform (SSR): Policy, Practice and Research', International Development Research Centre (IDRC), Ottowa Size: 43 pages (273 kB)
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How should the international administration and the Kosovar authorities deal with the plethora of intelligence services linked to political parties in Kosovo? What steps should be taken to establish an effective intelligence agency for Kosovo? This brief from the Kosovo Institute for Policy Research and Development (KIPRED) analyses the situation in Kosovo with regard to intelligence agencies. The authorities must end toleration for party intelligence agencies and establish a clear legal framework, guidelines and accountability mechanisms for Kosovo's future intelligence service.

Author: Ilir Dugolli | Lulzim Peci Source: Dugolli, I. and Peci, l. (2006). 'Intelligence Agencies of Kosovo: Dismantling, Osmosis, Or Integration?', Kosovar Institute for Policy Research and Development Policy Brief Series: Paper #2, KIPRED: Prishtina Size: 10 pages (60 kB)
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Is collective security possible when the evaluation of and response to threats depend on access to intelligence that cannot be shared openly? This paper, by the Lowy Institute, examines the role national intelligence does and could play in addressing threats to international security. It makes particular reference to the United Nations Security Council and the strategic perspective of Australia, and focuses on the contemporary threats of terrorism and proliferation of weapons of mass destruction (WMD).

Author: Dr Simon Chesterman | Lowy Institute Source: Chesterman, S. (2006). 'Shared secrets: intelligence and collective security', Lowy Institute Paper 10, Lowy Institute for International Policy Size: 115 pages (378kB)
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This book aims to be a sourcebook on 'defence institution building', drawing on established practices in Western Europe, but also on recent experiences from among new NATO members. All contributions focus on ongoing defence reform. The picture presented is not universal; North and South, and rich and poor states tend to view security challenges in very different ways. Working together on common problems is the best way to build mutual understanding and trust, these being the essential elements for stability and security.

Author: Wim F Van Eekelen | Philipp H. Fluri Source: Van Eekelen, W.F. and Fluri, P.H. (Eds.) (2006). 'Defence Institution Building : A Sourcebook in Support of the Partnership Action Plan (PAP-DIB)', Landesverteidigungsakademie (Austrian National Defence Academy). Size: 2 pages (29.5kb)
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What are the issues in reforming Turkey's security sector in line with EU accession requirements? This almanac by the Turkish Economics and Social Studies Foundation (TESEV) offers a comprehensive review of Turkey's security sector from a human security perspective. Turkey confronted internal security threats in the 1990s. These led to the adoption of a more militarised strategy and the sidelining of elected bodies, civil society, and the media. After gaining EU candidate status in 1999 and the financial crisis of 2001 serious efforts have been made to democratise the security sector. Despite positive steps, military policies persist behind the formalities of democratic government.

Author: Umit Cizre Source: Cizre, Ü, 2006, 'Almanac Turkey 2005 - Security Sector and Democratic Oversight', DCAF and TESEV Size: 285 pages (3.3 MB)
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What are the critical issues for security sector reform (SSR) in Liberia? The Governance Reform Commission (GRC) set up by the president of Liberia to provide professional and intellectual leadership of Liberia's security sector reform (SSR) has assessed the country's security sector and reviewed existing legislation. It concludes that the SSR process in Liberia is taking place within very volatile, uncertain and fragile internal and external security environments. The precarious position makes the task of SSR challenging, necessary and relevant.

Author: Thomas Jaye Source: Jaye, T., 2006, 'An Assessment Report on Security Sector Reform in Liberia', Governance Reform Commission of Liberia, Monrovia Size: 20 pages (240.2KB)
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What are the chances of Liberia achieving stability after 14 years of war? What would be the consequences of new stability? This paper, by the International Crisis Group, argues that if Liberia becomes stable it will shore up the fragile peace in Sierra Leone and diminish the probability of armed conflict in Guinea. However, if a sensitive partnership between government and donors fails to materialise, Liberia will be in a difficult position and one that might open the door for a future, disastrous insurgency.

Author: International Crisis Group Source: International Crisis Group, 2006, 'Liberia: Staying Focused', Africa Briefing N°36, 13 January 2006, International Crisis Group, Dakar/Brussels Size: 16 pages (323KB)
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Has security sector reform (SSR) in Bosnia and Herzegovina enhanced the security of Bosnia as a whole? This Conflict, Security and Development article argues that SSR has produced some notable results and contributed to the general improvement of security in Bosnia. However SSR has inadvertently created some new security risks. Furthermore, until the lack of local 'ownership' of SSR and the Dayton constitutional arrangements are effectively addressed, Bosnia will remain a weak, marginalised country.

Author: Slobodan Perdan Source: Perdan, S., 2006, 'Security Sector Reform: The Building of Security in Bosnia and Herzegovina', Conflict, Security and Development, vol. 6, no. 2, pp. 179-209 Size: 32 pages ()
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What are the roles of national security decision-making structures in developing and developed countries? How could these structures benefit from reform? This paper from RAND Europe surveys case studies of national security architectures worldwide to evaluate the effectiveness of their organisation and operations. It argues that, since developed and developing countries face different security threats and logistical challenges, their emphases in security reform will vary, but transparency, accountability, coordination and broad-based information gathering are key.

Author: Kevin O'Brien | Andrew Rathmell Source: Bearne, S., O'Brien, K., Oliker, O. & Rathmell, A., 2005 'National Security Decision-Making Structures and Security Sector Reform', Security Sector Development Advisory Team, London Size: 38 pages (128 kb)
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What choices are required when designing and implementing legislative oversight of intelligence and security services? This RAND report provides an opportunity to learn from the successes and failures of intelligence and security legislation in various countries. Case studies from the UK, Canada, South Africa, Germany, the Czech Republic and Argentina provide a balance between developed and developing countries alongside evolutionary versus revolutionary intelligence reforms.

Author: Greg Hannah | Andrew Rathmell Source: Hannah, G., O'Brien, K. and Rathmell, A., 2005, 'Intelligence and Security Legislation for Security Sector Reform', RAND Europe, Cambridge Size: 49 pages (401 kB)
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How can states establish democratic oversight of their intelligence services? This publication from the Geneva Centre for the Democratic Control of Armed Forces, the Human Rights Centre of the University of Durham and the Norwegian Parliamentary Intelligence Oversight Committee presents legal standards and best practice for the oversight of intelligence agencies. The legal standards and best practices need to be developed at four levels of control: internal agency control, executive control, parliamentary oversight and independent oversight.

Author: Hans Born | Ian Leigh Source: Born, H. and Leigh, I., 2005, 'Making Intelligence Accountable: Legal Standards and Best Practice for Oversight of Intelligence Agencies', DCAF Handbook Series, Publishing House of the Parliament of Norway, Oslo. Size: 130 pages (696 kB)
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What are the implications for the security sector of the post-9/11 focus on combating terrorism? How should the security sector respond to terrorism? This publication from the Geneva Centre for the Democratic Control of Armed Forces and the Swedish National Defence College examines counterterrorism-related trends in the security sector. It highlights the importance of a balanced approach toward terrorism across the security sector.

Author: Ambassador Dr. Theodor H. Winkler | Anja H. Ebnöther Source: Winkler, T. H., Ebnöther, A. H. and Hansson, M. B., 2005, 'Combating Terrorism and Its Implications for the Security Sector', Swedish National Defence College, Stockholm Size: 250 pages (1.24 MB)
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What progress did the Coalition Provisional Authority (CPA) make in building Iraqi security forces and institutions? This report from the RAND Corporation examines the CPA's efforts to reconstruct and reform the Iraqi security sector. It finds that the CPA's security sector capacity-building and reform programme, while behind on many of its targets, was moving in the right direction.

Author: Andrew Rathmell | Olga Oliker Source: Rathmell, A., Oliker, O., Kelly, T.K., Brannan, D. and Crane, K. (2005). 'Developing Iraq's Security Sector: The Coalition Provisional Authority's Experience', Report prepared for the Office of the Secretary of Defense, RAND National Defense Research Institute, RAND Corporation Size: 123 pages (387 kB)
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What steps have been taken to reshape how US intelligence is organised? What further steps need to be taken? This paper from the RAND Corporation examines the December 2004 legislation on intelligence and outlines the next steps in reshaping intelligence. It argues that while the 2004 legislation could serve as the beginning of a real reshaping of US intelligence, further action is needed. The law changed how US intelligence was organised; the intelligence community must now change how it operates.

Author: Gregory F. Treverton | RAND Source: Treverton, G.F. (2005). 'Next Steps in Reshaping Intelligence', Occasional Paper, RAND Corporation Size: 46 pages (242 kB)
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What challenges do south-eastern European countries face in terms of security sector reform (SSR)? In 2002 the Geneva Centre for the Democratic Control of Armed Forces (DCAF) conducted a special programme on the progress of SSR in South East Europe (SEE). The overall objective of the programme was to assess progress to date, review lessons learned, and identify requirements for reform programmes implemented in each country as well as those leading to enhanced regional cooperation.

Author: Eden Cole | Timothy Donais Source: Cole, E., Donais, T. and Fluri, P. (2005). 'Defence and Security Sector Governance and Reform in South East Europe Self-Assessment Studies: Regional Perspectives', Nomos. Size: pages ()
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How can intelligence services contribute to security sector reform? This research, by the British Government's Security Sector Defence Advisory Team, argues that intelligence services are in an ideal position to both contribute to the rejection of outdated risks as well as identify emerging threats. However, intelligence services require careful management. Dividing security organisations according to whether they deal with foreign or domestic issues is no longer useful. But it is important to distinguish between intelligence and security functions because they require different styles of management and a different relationship with policy makers.

Author: Peter Wilson Source: Wilson, P., (2005), 'The contribution of intelligence services to security sector reform', Conflict, Security and Development, Volume 5, Number 1, pp. 87-107(21) Size: 22 pages ()
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Has Guatemala's 1996 Peace Accord achieved its goal of combating crime and violence? Have reforms of the intelligence and security services ensured that security demands do not threaten human rights? This report, from the Washington Office on Latin America (WOLA), describes the current state of intelligence system reform and argues that the process of reforming the old intelligence structures has produced mixed results.

Author: Iduvina Hernández Source: Hernández, I., 2005, 'A Long Road: Progress and Challenges in Guatemala's Intelligence Reform', WOLA, Washington DC Size: 16 pages (322 kB)
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How can the trafficking of small arms be stopped in Sierra Leone and Liberia? This research from the Institute for Security Studies looks at the factors behind the demand for weapons in these countries. It argues that policy makers should focus on the buyer side of the market to determine creative ways of stopping proliferation. Only through political empowerment, infrastructure development, and economic alternatives will the flow of illegal small arms and light weapons be stemmed in these countries.

Author: Taya Weiss Source: Weiss, T., 2005, 'Perpetrating Power: Small Arms in Post-Conflict Sierra Leone and Liberia', Institute for Strategic Studies, Pretoria Size: 126 pages (1.44MB)
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How fertile a region is Kenya and Tanzania for Al Qaida? What is the potential for recruitment in these areas? This Studies in Conflict & Terrorism paper examines the 'soft underbelly' of global terrorism. Assessing the scope for terrorist activity, strategies are considered to prevent Kenya and Tanzania from becoming active recruiting grounds for the global Islamist jihadist movement.

Author: William Rosenau Source: Rosenau, W., 2005, Al Qaida Recruitment Trends in Kenya and Tanzania, Studies in Conflict & Terrorism, Vol. 28, No. 1 Size: 10 pages ()
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Pakistan's mix of military might, western allegiance and thriving Islamic fundamentalism is often confusing and contradictory to the outside observer. This article, published in Economic Review, reviews 'Pakistan - Between Mosque and Military Review', by Husain Haqqani. The book analyses the role of religion, the seemingly omnipotent military and intelligence services that control much of the country's foreign and domestic policy making, the factors behind failed civilian governments, and the country's tense but close relationship with the United States. It delivers a clear and concise account of why Pakistan is still under military rule more than 50 years after gaining independence from the United Kingdom.

Author: Keri Geiger | Carnegie Endowment for International Peace Source: Geiger K., 2005, 'Pakistan: Between Mosque and Military Review', Carnegie Endowment for International Peace Size: 2 pages (32 kB)
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What is the current state of justice systems in Africa? How does a lack of funding affect the capacity of legal systems to deliver justice? This paper from the Global Facilitation Network for Security Sector Reform (GFN-SSR) seeks to put into context the current state of justice systems in Africa and describes the direction in which most transformation and reform initiatives are headed.

Author: Wilfred Sharf Source: Schärf, W., 2004, African Security via Police, Justice and Intelligence Reforms, in Ferguson, C. and Isima, J.O., 2004, Providing Security for People : Enhancing Security through Poilce, Justice and Intelligence Reform in Africa, Global Facilitation Network for Security Sector Reform, Shrivenham Size: 4 pages (740 kb)
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There is a need for more comprehensive solutions to wider security sector challenges in conflict resolution. This report, from the Global Facilitation Network for Security Sector Reform, provides an overview of the security reforms that were implemented in Sierra Leone. It serves as a set of guidelines for practitioners supporting similar programmes in the future. It argues that the different elements of a Security Sector Reform programme should be sequenced strategically.

Author: Ann M. Fitz-Gerald Source: Fitz-Gerald, A.M., 2004, 'Security Sector Reform in Sierra Leone', Global Facilitation Network for Security Sector reform (GFN-SSR), Shrivenham Size: 24 pages (297 KB)
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What are the linkages between security sector reform (SSR) and the reform of various rule of law institutions, such as the police, justice and intelligence services? This edited volume, published by Global Facilitation Network for Security Sector Reform, argues that the SSR activities that have been initiated in Africa, either by donor influence or by local decision, have been undertaken in a piecemeal fashion. Security sector reform can be enhanced through a coherent and inclusive framework that incorporates police, justice and intelligence reform as an essential aspect of the reform process.

Author: Jeffrey O Isima Source: Ferguson, C. and Isima, J., 2004, 'Providing Security for People: Enhancing Security through Police, Justice and Intelligence Reform in Africa', Global Facilitation Network for Security Sector Reform, Shrivenham, UK Size: 86 pages (739kB)
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What role can the media play in governance of the security sector? What obstacles hinder the media's ability to provide effective oversight of security institutions? This book from the Bonn International Center for Conversion and the Geneva Centre for the Democratic Control of Armed Forces examines the role of the media in governance and oversight of the security sector. It argues that the media have a vital role to play in monitoring security institutions and helping citizens make informed decisions regarding the security sector.

Author: Marina Caparini Source: Caparini, M. (Ed.) (2004). 'Media in Security and Governance: The Role of the News Media in Security', Nomos / Bonn International Center for Conversion (BICC) / Geneva Centre for the Democratic Control of Armed Forces (DCAF). Size: pages ()
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What progress has been made in the reconstruction of Iraq during the occupation and what challenges remain? This report from the Open Society Institute and the United Nations Foundation assesses the legacy of the occupation and outlines the challenges facing Iraq's reconstruction. It concludes that conditions in Iraq reflect the successes and failures of the occupation period. Post-conflict stability and reconstruction can only be achieved if the international community demonstrates sustained commitment to enabling Iraqis to build a free and stable society. The Coalition, the international community and the Iraqi people must make progress regarding security, the political process, economic reconstruction, infrastructure and social services and justice.

Author: Mimi Ghez (Project Chair) | Anthony Richter (Project Director) Source: United Nations Foundation and Open Society Institute, 2004, 'Iraq in Transition: Post-conflict Challenges and Opportunities', OSI & UNF Size: 144 pages (829.4 kB)
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How can intelligence reform assist in asserting civilian supremacy over the military? This article, published in the journal Revista Fuerzas Armadas y Sociedad, argues that the work of three successive Chilean governments has had only limited success in expanding civilian authority over intelligence. A new model for understanding the dynamics of intelligence reform is offered, involving the number of institutions involved, presidential control and civilian oversight.

Author: | Gregory Weeks Source: Weeks, G., 2004, 'The Military and Intelligence Reform in Chile', Revista Fuerzas Armadas y Sociedad', vol.18, no.3-4, pp.253-263 Size: 14 pages (55 kB)
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How do mercenaries contribute to instability in West Africa? Do they pose a specific threat to Ghana's democratic consolidation? This paper for the Kofi Annan International Peace Training Centre (KAIPTC) analyses the security threat to Ghana posed by possible mercenary action in the context of a period of pre-election tension. The recycling of combatants from one civil war to another poses security threats in West Africa in terms of outbreak or recurrence of civil war. These threats 'spill over' to countries like Ghana which are relatively peaceful and are consolidating democracy and good governance. Early and appropriate response to these threats by Ghana or within the ECOWAS sub-regional framework would enhance both state and human security.

Author: Prosper Addo Source: Addo, P., 2004, 'Mercenarism in West Africa: A Threat to Ghana's Democracy?', Kofi Annan Peacekeeping Training Centre, Accra Size: 14 pages (135 kB)
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How can intelligence services act both as a protectorate of democracy and engage in secret operations? This paper examines intelligence services in democratic societies. It considers elements necessary for creating a coordinated, civilian intelligence structure that reflects the needs of a democratic society and threats to the state. It lists the main criteria for democratic control, supervision, accountability and oversight of activities. The nature of intelligence is such that the balance between secrecy and democracy will always be a delicate one to strike.

Author: DCAF Intelligence Working Group Source: DCAF Intelligence Working Group (2003). 'Intelligence Practice and Democratic Oversight : A Practitioner's View', Occasional Paper 03, Geneva Centre for the Democratic Control of Armed Forces (DCAF) Size: 85 pages (424kb)
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What role do Iraq's various security institutions play in ensuring the survival of Saddam Hussein's regime? This 2002 article from the Middle East Review of International Affairs analyses the security and intelligence network in Saddam's Iraq. It shows how the agencies that make up Iraq's security apparatus permeate every aspect of Iraqi life and ensure Saddam's total control over the state.

Author: Ibrahim al-Marashi Source: Al-Marashi, I, 2002, 'Iraq's Security and Intelligence Network: A Guide and Analysis', Middle East of International Affairs vol.6 no.3, September 2002 Size: pages ()
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