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1. Lessons from Burundi’s Security Sector Reform Process

Author:
Nicole Ball
Publication Date:
11-2014
Content Type:
Policy Brief
Institution:
Africa Center for Strategic Studies
Abstract:
Security sector reform (SSR) is increasingly put forward as a solution for a broad spectrum of African states facing security challenges. Yet, for a variety of reasons, there are relatively few examples of successful SSR implementation. The case of Burundi’s Security Sector Development (SSD) program, while still a work in progress, is noteworthy for having advanced both security sector effectiveness and democratic account­ability since its inception in 2009. The success of SSR programs depends heavily on the ability to address politically sensitive issues. For the most part, SSR programs have fared poorly in this regard. Burundi’s SSD program, however, proactively addresses the politics of reform at both the policy and operational levels on a daily basis. Insights from Burundi’s SSD program can inform other African SSR
Topic:
Political and institutional effectiveness
Political Geography:
Burundi

2. Lessons from Burundi's Security Sector Reform Process

Author:
Nicole Ball
Publication Date:
11-2014
Content Type:
Policy Brief
Institution:
Africa Center for Strategic Studies
Abstract:
Progress made by Burundi's Security Sector Development (SSD) program in advancing democratic security sector governance is noteworthy given that there have been relatively few successful security sector reform cases from which to draw. Political will for security sector reform was expanded over time by supporting tangible priorities of the Burundian security sector that established the trust enabling broader engagement on governance issues. The relative success of the SSD program—and particularly its governance pillar—depended heavily on its ability to address politically sensitive issues. SSD's 8-year timeframe provided the time to adapt the program to evolving circumstances, facilitate increasing Burundian ownership of the reform process, and realize the incremental gains from which substantive change was possible.
Topic:
Security and Reform
Political Geography:
Africa and Burundi