Challenges Facing Civilian Control of the Military and Their Impact on Democratic Consolidation: The Case of Sierra Leone
Abstract
Developing democracies, especially in countries such as Sierra Leone, that have experienced military interventions in politics, face challenges in establishing civilian control over their armed forces. Until the UK-led post-war defense reform of 2002, Sierra Leones military was politicized and had a history of intervening in politics following the country's independence in 1961. While the government is still consolidating post-reform gains, attendant problems of civilian control are apparent. Using a case study method, this thesis investigates the challenges to civilian control of the military in Sierra Leone. The study tests four hypotheses that relate to military prerogatives, politicization of the military and acceptance of civilian supremacy, engagement in domestic security, and limited civilian defense expertise or interest. The thesis finds that military engagement in domestic security and civilian leaderships limited defense expertise or interest pose potential risks to democratic civilian control of the military. The risks of heightened military prerogatives and politicization are currently low, making them less worrisome. Failing to address these two challenges, however, increases the likelihood for the latter two to become risks as all four factors are found interrelated. The thesis recommends policy action to enhance and strengthen military acceptance of civilian supremacy, civilian defense expertise and interest, institutional control, and resource provision.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 01, 2021
- Accession Number
- AD1150501
Entities
People
- Abdul K. Dumbuya
Organizations
- Naval Postgraduate School