Security Sector Reform in Palestine, Lebanon and Yemen

Carnegie Endowment for International Peace - October 31, 2009 - Back to Resources Page [1]

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As they emerge from conflict, states can rarely commence the arduous task of
reconstruction and consolidate their governments until they undertake extensive
restructuring of their security forces. Palestine, Lebanon, and Yemen are all
fractured, quasi-democratic states with divided societies, and deep disagreement
over what constitutes the national interest. Successful reform in each will require
security institutions that answer to democratically-elected civilian leaders, but
the U.S. and European approach has thus far focused largely on providing military
training and equipment, targeted toward counter terrorist capabilities.

To enable real reform, the West must adopt a comprehensive approach
which treats security reform as only one part of a broader political strategy,
and encourage governments and security commanders in Palestine, Lebanon,
and Yemen to buy into such a strategy. Donor states should invest resources
commensurate with their declared objectives, improve coordination, and
standardize practices. Above all, they should make it a priority to build the
institutions and procedures that are essential for democratic governance of
the security sector, without which reforms become bogged down in internal
power struggles. Pursuing counter terrorism in the absence of the rule of law
perpetuates the undemocratic governance of the security sector and undermines
state building and post-conflict reconstruction.

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Carnegie Endowment for International Peace - October 31, 2009 - Back to Resources Page [1]