A ‘Force for Good’? Police Reform in Post?conflict Sierra Leone
Date
2012Author
Charley, Joseph P. Chris
M'Cormack, Freida Ibiduni
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Abstract
The Sierra Leone Police Force has its origins in British colonial administration. After Independence and with the consolidation of one?party rule the force slid into disrepute. The outbreak of civil conflict in 1991 largely decimated the force but the gradual restoration of peace provided an opportunity for police reform. This article covers the aspects of the political and institutional environment that helped engender change, as well as constraints faced by the reform agenda. It considers how the officers actually carried out the task at hand, and shares lessons as to what reform tactics worked and which were less successful. While several challenges remain, the reform programme has been largely successful, hinging on – among other factors – the appointment of a British Inspector General of Police; the availability of a core of reform?minded officers; long?term external technical and financial assistance; and a conducive political environment for change.
Citation
Charley, J., P. C. and M'Cormack, F., I. (2012) A ‘Force for Good’? Police Reform in Post?conflict Sierra Leone. IDS Bulletin 43(4): 49-62DOI
10.1111/j.1759-5436.2012.00334.xIs part of series
IDS Bulletin Vol. 43 Nos. 4Rights holder
© 2012 The Authors. IDS Bulletin © 2012 Institute of Development StudiesCollections
- Volume 43. Issue 4 [10]