INTRODUCTION
This edition of the Sampler explores the challenges and complexities of
Security Sector Reform. Along with a selection of thought-provoking lessons,
this Sampler also provides an extensive list of related publications and links.
While U.S./coalition or international actors may be actively engaged in security
activities in the initial phases of peace/stability operations, it is also essential to
address Security Sector Reform (SSR) requirements – to improve host nation
(HN) security capacity and to ensure that HN policies, plans, programs, and
activities are put into place to more effectively provide safety, security, and
justice for the HN population. However, based upon conditions within the HN,
challenges to SSR may be significant:
Local security institutions are often viewed as corrupt, abusive, and
lacking in public service ethos. Reshaping this perception among the
population, building the capacity of security institutions, creating civilian
oversight structures to ensure accountability, and developing sound
security policies are all elements of SSR that have proven very difficult.
It is a major gap that must be filled.
Guiding Principles for Stabilization and Reconstruction
USIP and PKSOI, 2011 [section 6.11.1]
Other major challenges typically include: shortfalls in collecting/sharing critical
information about threats, weak HN corrections institutions, lack of oversight on
private security firms, inadequate reintegration plans/programs, and deficiencies
in border security systems. Nonetheless, the following guidelines have been
identified as key starting points/elements for developing an approach to SSR:
1. Ensure that reforms reflect the security needs of the HN population.
2. Strengthening security forces is not enough; promote good governance
and legitimate civilian oversight to ensure long-term accountability.
3. Prevent infiltration of security forces through robust vetting.
4. Focus on public service ethos and competence when training security
forces.
5. Support the improvement of police-community relations and police
responsiveness.
6. Ensure coherence of strategy and effort among major actors.
7. Promote the civil authority of the state; long-term stability depends on it.
Guiding Principles for Stabilization and Reconstruction
USIP and PKSOI, 2011 [sections 6.7.18 – 6.7.25]
Besides these seven guidelines, numerous lessons within the SOLLIMS
database reveal other key insights that have markedly contributed to successful
SSR programs in certain host nations – as well as various factors and situations
where significant changes/“course corrections” were needed. These insights and
recommendations are summarized in the Conclusion paragraph of this Sampler.
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