Security Sector Governance and Oversight: A Note on Current Practice

Although definitions for security sector governance vary, reform centers around two dimensions that enable effective oversight and accountability of the security and justice sector: 1) an institutional dimension to (re)build transparent mechanisms and processes for security policy, decisions, and practice, and 2) a normative dimension to transform relationships among security and justice providers, governing and oversight bodies, and the general public to embody principles of “good governance”-transparency, accountability, responsibility, participation, respect for human rights, compliance with international law, and regional peacebuilding. Traditionally, SSG reform efforts targeted support toward two security sector actors: bodies authorized to use force and civil management and oversight bodies. This approach is now widely agreed to be too narrow and state-centric given the importance of justice and rule of law institutions in providing security, the prevalence of non-state security and justice providers, and the need to include civil society for public participation and legitimacy. Therefore this practice note looks at all formal and informal actors with a role in influencing security sector governance.

 

 

Subscription Options

* indicates required

Research Areas

Pivotal Places

Publications & Project Lists

38 North: News and Analysis on North Korea