Civil-Military Relations: The Forgotten Foundation of Security Sector Reform
Abstract
Since World War II many colonized African countries attained self-rule. Some of these new nation-states, mostly in sub-Saharan Africa, gained their independence through liberation wars. These newly independent states inherited unprofessional militaries that often aligned themselves with a particular former liberation movement that evolved into a political party. This phenomenon has led to problematic civil-military relations that have contributed to political instability in a particular country and region. Sub-Saharan Africa has experienced some of the most disruptive of this political turmoil; military coups and intra-state conflicts have caused failed states in this troubled region. This SRP discusses the historical background of the problems in the region. It recommends using the principles of stabilization and state-building to enable these struggling states to build good governance. This analysis focuses on the importance of civil-military relations as part of state-building the world over. This SRP concludes with recommendations on how developed nations and international organizations can assist new developing states in establishing positive civil-military relations and reforming their security policies in order to avoid future conflicts.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 20, 2012
- Accession Number
- ADA561965
Entities
People
- Peter P. Tapela
Organizations
- United States Army War College