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Background

DCAF 25 years

Our approach

In everything we do, we adhere to the principles of impartiality, national ownership, inclusive participation, and gender equality. These values are our strength; we are trusted across the spectrum of state and non-state actors to accompany them through long and complex reform processes.

SSG milestones

A pioneer in security sector reform and governance, DCAF’s history is intertwined with milestones in the evolution of SSG/R in policy and practice on the international stage. The timeline below shows how our organization has evolved over the years, alongside international frameworks and standards of security sector governance.

Photo: DCAF/Nada Harib
2000

Creation of DCAF

In October 2000, in Geneva, the President of the Swiss Confederation Adolf Ogi and representatives of 22 other states and the Canton of Geneva sign our Founding Act and form DCAF’s first Foundation Council.

Defining the concepts of good governance and human rights principles

The UN Commission on Human Rights adopts the resolution on ‘The Role of Good Governance in the Promotion of Human Rights’. The concepts of good governance and human rights are mutually reinforcing. Human rights principles provide a set of values to guide the work of governments and other political and social actors, and a set of performance standards against which they can be held accountable. They also inform the development of legislative frameworks, policies, programmes, budgetary allocations, and other measures that create good governance.

Adoption of the Women Peace and Security resolution

The blueprint for gender and peacekeeping work for the Department of Peace Operations is rooted in the Security Council Resolution 1325 “Women, Peace and Security resolution”, the first one to address the disproportionate and unique impact of armed conflict on women. The resolution stresses the importance of women’s equal and full participation as active agents in the prevention and resolution of conflicts, peacebuilding, and peacekeeping.

Photo: DCAF/Radhika_Chalasani
2005

Acknowledging the importance of SSG/R: the OECD DAC Guidelines

The guidelines state that a democratic and accountable security sector helps prevent the outbreak and recurrence of violent conflict and provides the basis of stability for economic and social development. This marks a major shift in donor attention and acknowledgement of the importance of SSG/R in helping to create the conditions for sustainable development.

Photo: NATO
2006

A Concept for European Community Support for Security Sector Reform

Recognizing that SSG is a cross-cutting issue, the Concept sets out principles and norms for community engagement in reforms based on relevant policy frameworks and support in different countries and settings. It outlines the rationale for taking a more coordinated and strategic approach to SSR activities falling under various policy instruments.

Addressing organized and serious cross-border crime in Southeast Europe

The “Police Cooperation Convention for Southeast Europe” (PCC SEE) is a multilateral treaty ratified by the parliaments of six EU and six non-EU Member States. It provides a legal framework for addressing organized cross-border crime in the region. The PCC SEE Secretariat, hosted and supported by DCAF at its regional office in Ljubljana, serves as a technical expert that supports the implementation of the PCC SEE.

Photo: DCAF
2007

SSR recognized as an essential element of stabilization and reconstruction process in post-conflict environments

The Security Council stresses that reforming the security sector in post-conflict environments is critical to the consolidation of peace and stability, promoting poverty reduction, the rule of law and good governance. A professional, effective and accountable security sector - and accessible and impartial law-enforcement and justice sectors - are equally necessary to lay the foundation for peace and sustainable development.

Bridging the gap between policy and practice with the OECD DAC Handbook on Security System Reform

DCAF contributes to the OECD DAC Handbook on Security System Reform: Supporting Security and Justice, a cornerstone text offering guidance to operationalise the 2005 DAC Guidelines. Highlights of DCAF’s engagements are referenced in the handbook, namely our working group on legal aspects of security governance, and our parliamentary staff training programme to help sponsor and train local advisors in South East European parliaments.

Photo: DCAF/Ines Della Valle
2008

Linking security, human rights and development

The UNSG Report “Securing Peace and Development reflects the growing importance of SSR at the global level and the need for the international community to address it in an efficient, coherent , and coordinated manner. The report underlines that security, human rights and development are interdependent and mutually reinforcing conditions for sustainable peace, the fundamental elements of which can only be achieved within the framework of rule of law.

Adoption of the Montreux Document

The result of a joint initiative by Switzerland and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), adopted by 17 States. It reaffirms the obligations of States under international law, in particular international humanitarian law and human rights law related to the activities of private military and security companies.

Photo: DCAF/Phototek Media Lab
2009

Launch of the International Conference for Ombuds Institutions for the Armed Forces

Since its first meeting in 2009, the conference has brought together hundreds of representatives of ombuds institutions from over 70 countries to share experiences and best practices for effective oversight of the armed forces. By supporting their work, DCAF contributes to the democratic governance of the security sector and the respect for human rights within the armed forces.

Photo: DCAF/Nicolas Reméné
2010

New call to increase the equal participation of women in peace and security

In its Statement by the President of the UN Security CouncilMaintenance of International Peace and Security: optimizing the use of preventive diplomacy tools the Security Council reaffirms the important role of women in the prevention and resolution of conflicts and peacebuilding.  It also reiterates its call to increase the equal participation and representation of women in preventive diplomacy and all related decision-making processes regarding conflict resolution and peacebuilding.

Photo: DCAF/Nada Harib
2012

Creation of the Trust Fund for North Africa

The Fund offers security sector reform and governance assistance to help prevent and address risks of instability, fragility, and violence in the North Africa region. As a pooled funding instrument, it provides fast, flexible, long-term assistance to local governments, parliaments, security institutions, civil society, and communities in Egypt, Libya, Morocco, and Tunisia.

Promoting due diligence and human rights good practices with the ICRC

DCAF combines forces with the International Committee of the Red Cross to create the Security and Human Rights Knowledge Hub, which promotes responsible business conduct in complex and conflict-affected environments. We provide a comprehensive range of resources and tools on responsible security management and human rights due diligence – a process through which companies identify and address the impact of their operations on local populations.

Photo: DCAF
2013

African Union Policy Framework on Security Sector Reform

In its first Framework on SSR, the African Union (AU) reiterates its recognition of, and commitment to, international norms and standards in security sector reform. The AU framework stems from a recognition of the continuing gap between existing approaches to SSR and deficits in the delivery and governance of security in many AU Member States.

Photo: DCAF
2014

First stand-alone UN resolution on security sector reform

The UN Security Council resolution 2151 “The maintenance of international peace and security: security sector reform: challenges and opportunities reaffirms the value of SSR in stabilizing countries recovering from conflict and resolves to prioritise reform aspects in both peacekeeping and special political missions. It also emphasizes the centrality of national ownership for effective security sector reform processes.

DCAF’s headquarters move to the Maison de la Paix

Together with the other two Swiss-funded ‘sister’ centres, the Geneva Centre for Security Policy and the Geneva International Centre for Humanitarian Demining, DCAF’s moves its headquarters to the Maison de la Paix in the heart of International Geneva. The unique style of building is designed to be a meeting place for reflection and action in the field of promoting peace and security.

Creation of the Geneva Peacebuilding Platform

DCAF is one of five founding members of the Geneva Peacebuilding Platform, which facilitates connections between institutions to advance peacebuilding initiatives. Its flagship event is the Geneva Peace Week, a leading annual global forum to share knowledge and practice on a diverse range of topics related to peace across contexts and disciplines.

Photo: DCAF
2015

United Nations adopts the Sustainable Development Goals

In Transforming our world: the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, the United Nations formally establishes the link between security and sustainable development: “Sustainable development cannot be realized without peace and security; and peace and security will be at risk without sustainable development.”  Sustainable Development Goal 16 focuses on creating peace, justice and strong institutions, which shares many common objectives with SSG/R.

Photo: DCAF
2016

Creation of the Security and Human Rights Implementation Mechanism

The SHRIM is a multi-donor fund created by DCAF to support responsible business conduct and the protection of human rights, especially in fragile and conflict-affected contexts. The SHRIM helps improve security for people and their communities by funding locally-led and cost effective multistakeholder projects that include the private sector, civil society, and government officials.

Adoption of UN resolutions on sustaining peace

Resolutions of the General Assembly (A/RES/70/262) and Security Council (S/RES/2282) emphasize the importance of conflict prevention shifting the peacebuilding focus of the UN to address not only the symptoms, but also the root causes of conflict. They stress that a professional, accountable and effective security sector is critical to the consolidation of peace and stability by supporting rule of law, access to justice and good governance, the extension of legitimate state authority, and helping to prevent countries from lapsing or relapsing into conflict.

Developing an EU-wide strategic framework to support security sector reform

This new policy framework aims to enhance the EU's effectiveness in promoting and supporting partner countries' efforts to ensure security for individuals and the state. Based on the assumption that security should be anchored in respect for the rule of law, human rights and good governance, the framework applies to all EU actors, instruments, and contexts.

Photo: DCAF
2017

Creation of the North Macedonia Pooled Fund for Intelligence and Security Sector Reform

The Fund is established to coordinate donors’ support for efforts of the North Macedonian authorities to strengthen accountability and oversight of the intelligence and security sectors. Reforms are designed to align legal frameworks and institutional capacities with Euro Atlantic principles and best practices as part of the country’s objective of European Union membership.

Photo: DCAF
2019

Creation of the Elsie Initiative for women in peace operations

This multistakeholder initiative aims to accelerate the pace of change in national security institutions  to enable more uniformed women to participate meaningfully in United Nations peace operations. Through the Elsie initiative, DCAF creates the Measuring Opportunities for Women in Peace Operations (MOWIP) methodology,  and then helps countries implement the robust process to identify and address their own challenges and opportunities to increase women’s participation.

DCAF gets a new name

Over nearly 20 years, DCAF’s founding mandate and the concept of “democratic control of armed forces” has evolved into an expansive, inclusive vision of governance that engages a wide cross section of stakeholders and serves as a vital pillar of peace, security, and sustainable development. To reflect that change, we renamed ourselves DCAF – Geneva Centre for Security Sector Governance.

First edition of the DCAF Days in Brussels, Belgium

Building on the long-time partnership between the European Union and DCAF, DCAF Days is launched as a space for dialogue to develop a shared analysis of current SSG/R trends and needs, identify opportunities for engagement, and reflect critically on what is working well and what isn’t.

Photo: DCAF/Irina Popa
2020

UN resolutions 2538 and 2553 on women peacekeepers

On the 20th anniversary of UNSCR 1325, the United Nations Security Council emphasizes the critical importance of women’s involvement in peace processes. It calls on States, the UN, and regional multilateral organizations to, “strengthen their collective efforts to promote the full, effective, and meaningful participation of uniformed and civilian women in peacekeeping operations at all levels and in all positions, including in senior leadership positions”.

DCAF turns 20

“Over the past two decades DCAF has become a leading and renowned actor on security sector governance and reform.” Tatiana Valovaya, Director-General of the United Nations at Geneva

Update of the Gender and Security Toolkit

The Gender and Security Toolkit created by DCAF, OSCE/ODIHR, and UN Women is a set of practical tools and policy guides to promote gender equality and integrate a gender perspective in the security and justice sectors. Drawing on the past decade of policy innovation and best practices, it highlights what success looks like and how it can be achieved.

Photo: Orjan F.Ellingvag
2023

Supporting the Swiss government on the United Nations Security Council

The Swiss government’s four thematic priorities for its two-year term are peacebuilding, protection of civilians in armed conflicts, climate security, and strengthening the efficiency of the Security Council. A large number of UN mandates that include an SSG/R component will be subject to debate and renewal during Switzerland’s time on the Council. DCAF has been engaged to provide the Swiss government with expert analysis on the SSG/R elements in UN mandates and their contributions to peace and security.

DCAF has 16 offices on four continents

DCAF continues to expand worldwide with the opening of its newest country office in Chișinău, Moldova. Over 23 years supporting reform processes in more than 70 countries, DCAF has earned a reputation as the pre-eminent global expert in security sector reform and governance.

Photo: DCAF
2024

The OSCE Code of Conduct for security forces turns 30

Adopted in 1994, the OSCE’s Code of Conduct on Politico-Military Aspects of Security is a politically binding instrument that calls for the democratic governance not only of the military, but also other security forces including paramilitary, police, and intelligence services. The Code considers democratic governance of the security sector to be an essential element for stability and security.

Creation of the Pact for the Future

The adoption of the United Nations Pact for the Future marks a significant step forward in global cooperation on issues such as sustainable development and international peace and security. The Pact promotes a multilateral system that reflects the realities of today and that delivers for everyone, everywhere. DCAF contributed to the consultation phase of this historic document and some of our recommendations on SSG/R have been reflected in the final text of the Pact.

 
 
 
Photo: DCAF/Nada Harib
2000

Creation of DCAF

In October 2000, in Geneva, the President of the Swiss Confederation Adolf Ogi and representatives of 22 other states and the Canton of Geneva sign our Founding Act and form DCAF’s first Foundation Council.

Photo: NATO
2006

Addressing organized and serious cross-border crime in Southeast Europe

The “Police Cooperation Convention for Southeast Europe” (PCC SEE) is a multilateral treaty ratified by the parliaments of six EU and six non-EU Member States. It provides a legal framework for addressing organized cross-border crime in the region. The PCC SEE Secretariat, hosted and supported by DCAF at its regional office in Ljubljana, serves as a technical expert that supports the implementation of the PCC SEE.

Photo: DCAF
2007

Bridging the gap between policy and practice with the OECD DAC Handbook on Security System Reform

DCAF contributes to the OECD DAC Handbook on Security System Reform: Supporting Security and Justice, a cornerstone text offering guidance to operationalise the 2005 DAC Guidelines. Highlights of DCAF’s engagements are referenced in the handbook, namely our working group on legal aspects of security governance, and our parliamentary staff training programme to help sponsor and train local advisors in South East European parliaments.

Photo: DCAF/Ines Della Valle
2008

Adoption of the Montreux Document

The result of a joint initiative by Switzerland and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), adopted by 17 States. It reaffirms the obligations of States under international law, in particular international humanitarian law and human rights law related to the activities of private military and security companies.

Photo: DCAF/Phototek Media Lab
2009

Launch of the International Conference for Ombuds Institutions for the Armed Forces

Since its first meeting in 2009, the conference has brought together hundreds of representatives of ombuds institutions from over 70 countries to share experiences and best practices for effective oversight of the armed forces. By supporting their work, DCAF contributes to the democratic governance of the security sector and the respect for human rights within the armed forces.

Photo: DCAF/Nada Harib
2012

Creation of the Trust Fund for North Africa

The Fund offers security sector reform and governance assistance to help prevent and address risks of instability, fragility, and violence in the North Africa region. As a pooled funding instrument, it provides fast, flexible, long-term assistance to local governments, parliaments, security institutions, civil society, and communities in Egypt, Libya, Morocco, and Tunisia.

Promoting due diligence and human rights good practices with the ICRC

DCAF combines forces with the International Committee of the Red Cross to create the Security and Human Rights Knowledge Hub, which promotes responsible business conduct in complex and conflict-affected environments. We provide a comprehensive range of resources and tools on responsible security management and human rights due diligence – a process through which companies identify and address the impact of their operations on local populations.

Photo: DCAF
2014

DCAF’s headquarters move to the Maison de la Paix

Together with the other two Swiss-funded ‘sister’ centres, the Geneva Centre for Security Policy and the Geneva International Centre for Humanitarian Demining, DCAF’s moves its headquarters to the Maison de la Paix in the heart of International Geneva. The unique style of building is designed to be a meeting place for reflection and action in the field of promoting peace and security.

Creation of the Geneva Peacebuilding Platform

DCAF is one of five founding members of the Geneva Peacebuilding Platform, which facilitates connections between institutions to advance peacebuilding initiatives. Its flagship event is the Geneva Peace Week, a leading annual global forum to share knowledge and practice on a diverse range of topics related to peace across contexts and disciplines.

Photo: DCAF
2016

Creation of the Security and Human Rights Implementation Mechanism

The SHRIM is a multi-donor fund created by DCAF to support responsible business conduct and the protection of human rights, especially in fragile and conflict-affected contexts. The SHRIM helps improve security for people and their communities by funding locally-led and cost effective multistakeholder projects that include the private sector, civil society, and government officials.

Photo: DCAF
2017

Creation of the North Macedonia Pooled Fund for Intelligence and Security Sector Reform

The Fund is established to coordinate donors’ support for efforts of the North Macedonian authorities to strengthen accountability and oversight of the intelligence and security sectors. Reforms are designed to align legal frameworks and institutional capacities with Euro Atlantic principles and best practices as part of the country’s objective of European Union membership.

Photo: DCAF
2019

DCAF gets a new name

Over nearly 20 years, DCAF’s founding mandate and the concept of “democratic control of armed forces” has evolved into an expansive, inclusive vision of governance that engages a wide cross section of stakeholders and serves as a vital pillar of peace, security, and sustainable development. To reflect that change, we renamed ourselves DCAF – Geneva Centre for Security Sector Governance.

First edition of the DCAF Days in Brussels, Belgium

Building on the long-time partnership between the European Union and DCAF, DCAF Days is launched as a space for dialogue to develop a shared analysis of current SSG/R trends and needs, identify opportunities for engagement, and reflect critically on what is working well and what isn’t.

Photo: DCAF/Irina Popa
2020

DCAF turns 20

“Over the past two decades DCAF has become a leading and renowned actor on security sector governance and reform.” Tatiana Valovaya, Director-General of the United Nations at Geneva

Update of the Gender and Security Toolkit

The Gender and Security Toolkit created by DCAF, OSCE/ODIHR, and UN Women is a set of practical tools and policy guides to promote gender equality and integrate a gender perspective in the security and justice sectors. Drawing on the past decade of policy innovation and best practices, it highlights what success looks like and how it can be achieved.

Photo: Orjan F.Ellingvag
2023

Supporting the Swiss government on the United Nations Security Council

The Swiss government’s four thematic priorities for its two-year term are peacebuilding, protection of civilians in armed conflicts, climate security, and strengthening the efficiency of the Security Council. A large number of UN mandates that include an SSG/R component will be subject to debate and renewal during Switzerland’s time on the Council. DCAF has been engaged to provide the Swiss government with expert analysis on the SSG/R elements in UN mandates and their contributions to peace and security.

DCAF has 16 offices on four continents

DCAF continues to expand worldwide with the opening of its newest country office in Chișinău, Moldova. Over 23 years supporting reform processes in more than 70 countries, DCAF has earned a reputation as the pre-eminent global expert in security sector reform and governance.

 
 
 
Photo: DCAF/Nada Harib
2000

Defining the concepts of good governance and human rights principles

The UN Commission on Human Rights adopts the resolution on ‘The Role of Good Governance in the Promotion of Human Rights’. The concepts of good governance and human rights are mutually reinforcing. Human rights principles provide a set of values to guide the work of governments and other political and social actors, and a set of performance standards against which they can be held accountable. They also inform the development of legislative frameworks, policies, programmes, budgetary allocations, and other measures that create good governance.

Adoption of the Women Peace and Security resolution

The blueprint for gender and peacekeeping work for the Department of Peace Operations is rooted in the Security Council Resolution 1325 “Women, Peace and Security resolution”, the first one to address the disproportionate and unique impact of armed conflict on women. The resolution stresses the importance of women’s equal and full participation as active agents in the prevention and resolution of conflicts, peacebuilding, and peacekeeping.

Photo: DCAF/Radhika_Chalasani
2005

Acknowledging the importance of SSG/R: the OECD DAC Guidelines

The guidelines state that a democratic and accountable security sector helps prevent the outbreak and recurrence of violent conflict and provides the basis of stability for economic and social development. This marks a major shift in donor attention and acknowledgement of the importance of SSG/R in helping to create the conditions for sustainable development.

Photo: NATO
2006

A Concept for European Community Support for Security Sector Reform

Recognizing that SSG is a cross-cutting issue, the Concept sets out principles and norms for community engagement in reforms based on relevant policy frameworks and support in different countries and settings. It outlines the rationale for taking a more coordinated and strategic approach to SSR activities falling under various policy instruments.

Photo: DCAF
2007

SSR recognized as an essential element of stabilization and reconstruction process in post-conflict environments

The Security Council stresses that reforming the security sector in post-conflict environments is critical to the consolidation of peace and stability, promoting poverty reduction, the rule of law and good governance. A professional, effective and accountable security sector - and accessible and impartial law-enforcement and justice sectors - are equally necessary to lay the foundation for peace and sustainable development.

Photo: DCAF/Ines Della Valle
2008

Linking security, human rights and development

The UNSG Report “Securing Peace and Development reflects the growing importance of SSR at the global level and the need for the international community to address it in an efficient, coherent , and coordinated manner. The report underlines that security, human rights and development are interdependent and mutually reinforcing conditions for sustainable peace, the fundamental elements of which can only be achieved within the framework of rule of law.

Photo: DCAF/Nicolas Reméné
2010

New call to increase the equal participation of women in peace and security

In its Statement by the President of the UN Security CouncilMaintenance of International Peace and Security: optimizing the use of preventive diplomacy tools the Security Council reaffirms the important role of women in the prevention and resolution of conflicts and peacebuilding.  It also reiterates its call to increase the equal participation and representation of women in preventive diplomacy and all related decision-making processes regarding conflict resolution and peacebuilding.

Photo: DCAF
2013

African Union Policy Framework on Security Sector Reform

In its first Framework on SSR, the African Union (AU) reiterates its recognition of, and commitment to, international norms and standards in security sector reform. The AU framework stems from a recognition of the continuing gap between existing approaches to SSR and deficits in the delivery and governance of security in many AU Member States.

Photo: DCAF
2014

First stand-alone UN resolution on security sector reform

The UN Security Council resolution 2151 “The maintenance of international peace and security: security sector reform: challenges and opportunities reaffirms the value of SSR in stabilizing countries recovering from conflict and resolves to prioritise reform aspects in both peacekeeping and special political missions. It also emphasizes the centrality of national ownership for effective security sector reform processes.

Photo: DCAF
2015

United Nations adopts the Sustainable Development Goals

In Transforming our world: the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, the United Nations formally establishes the link between security and sustainable development: “Sustainable development cannot be realized without peace and security; and peace and security will be at risk without sustainable development.”  Sustainable Development Goal 16 focuses on creating peace, justice and strong institutions, which shares many common objectives with SSG/R.

Photo: DCAF
2016

Adoption of UN resolutions on sustaining peace

Resolutions of the General Assembly (A/RES/70/262) and Security Council (S/RES/2282) emphasize the importance of conflict prevention shifting the peacebuilding focus of the UN to address not only the symptoms, but also the root causes of conflict. They stress that a professional, accountable and effective security sector is critical to the consolidation of peace and stability by supporting rule of law, access to justice and good governance, the extension of legitimate state authority, and helping to prevent countries from lapsing or relapsing into conflict.

Developing an EU-wide strategic framework to support security sector reform

This new policy framework aims to enhance the EU's effectiveness in promoting and supporting partner countries' efforts to ensure security for individuals and the state. Based on the assumption that security should be anchored in respect for the rule of law, human rights and good governance, the framework applies to all EU actors, instruments, and contexts.

Photo: DCAF
2019

Creation of the Elsie Initiative for women in peace operations

This multistakeholder initiative aims to accelerate the pace of change in national security institutions  to enable more uniformed women to participate meaningfully in United Nations peace operations. Through the Elsie initiative, DCAF creates the Measuring Opportunities for Women in Peace Operations (MOWIP) methodology,  and then helps countries implement the robust process to identify and address their own challenges and opportunities to increase women’s participation.

Photo: DCAF/Irina Popa
2020

UN resolutions 2538 and 2553 on women peacekeepers

On the 20th anniversary of UNSCR 1325, the United Nations Security Council emphasizes the critical importance of women’s involvement in peace processes. It calls on States, the UN, and regional multilateral organizations to, “strengthen their collective efforts to promote the full, effective, and meaningful participation of uniformed and civilian women in peacekeeping operations at all levels and in all positions, including in senior leadership positions”.

Photo: DCAF
2024

The OSCE Code of Conduct for security forces turns 30

Adopted in 1994, the OSCE’s Code of Conduct on Politico-Military Aspects of Security is a politically binding instrument that calls for the democratic governance not only of the military, but also other security forces including paramilitary, police, and intelligence services. The Code considers democratic governance of the security sector to be an essential element for stability and security.

Creation of the Pact for the Future

The adoption of the United Nations Pact for the Future marks a significant step forward in global cooperation on issues such as sustainable development and international peace and security. The Pact promotes a multilateral system that reflects the realities of today and that delivers for everyone, everywhere. DCAF contributed to the consultation phase of this historic document and some of our recommendations on SSG/R have been reflected in the final text of the Pact.

 
 
 

Our donors

We are grateful for the confidence of our partners and the support of our core funders
and other generous donors who make our work possible.

Switzerland
Switzerland
Netherlands
Netherlands
Germany
Germany
United Kingdom
United Kingdom
European Union
European Union
Sweden
Sweden
United Nations
United Nations
Canada
Canada
Finland
Finland
Denmark
Denmark
France
France
Norway
Norway
Open Society Foundations
Open Society Foundations
Liechtenstein
Liechtenstein
Luxembourg
Luxembourg
Austria
Austria
Slovakia
Slovakia
NATO
NATO
Bosnia and Herzegovina
Bosnia and Herzegovina
North Macedonia
North Macedonia
Montenegro
Montenegro
Hungary
Hungary
Serbia
Serbia
Romania
Romania
Moldova
Moldova
Bulgaria
Bulgaria
Albania
Albania
US State Department
US
State Department
OIF
OIF

Milestones in the history of SSR

1994

OSCE Code of Conduct on Democratic Control of Armed Forces

The ‘OSCE Code of Conduct on Politico-Military Aspects of Security’ was adopted in 1994. It is a politically binding instrument that calls for the democratic control not only of the military, but also other security forces including paramilitary, police and intelligence services. The Code considers democratic control of the security sector to be an essential element for stability and security.

2000

UN Commission on Human Rights: ‘The Role of Good Governance in the Promotion of Human Rights’

The concepts of good governance and human rights are mutually reinforcing. Human rights principles not only provide a set of values to guide the work of governments and other political and social actors, but also a set of performance standards against which these actors can be held accountable. Moreover, human rights principles inform the content of good governance efforts in the development of legislative frameworks, policies, programmes, budgetary allocations and other measures.

2000

UN Security Council Resolution 1325: Women, Peace and Security

The blueprint for gender and peacekeeping work for the Department of Peacekeeping Operations (DPKO) is rooted in Security Council Resolution 1325 (2000), the first Resolution to address the disproportionate and unique impact of armed conflict on women. The resolution stresses the importance of women’s equal and full participation as active agents in the prevention and resolution of conflicts, peacebuilding and peacekeeping.

2002

UNDP Human Development Report: ‘Deepening Democracy in a Fragmented World’      

Democratic governance of the security sector and human development are crucial to securing peace and public accountability: human development will be held back in any country where the military, police and other security-related institutions hold sway over democratic institutions, are not democratically accountable for much of their power, or are fragmented and anarchic. 

2005

Council of Europe Parliamentary Assembly Recommendation 1713 ‘Recommendation on Democratic Oversight of the Security Sector in Member States’    
The Assembly, conscious of the fact that the proper functioning of democracy and respect for human rights are the Council of Europe’s main concern, recommends that the Committee of Ministers prepare and adopt guidelines for governments setting out the political rules, standards and practical approaches required to apply the principle of democratic supervision of the entire security sector in member states.

2005

OECD DAC Guidelines: Security System Reform and Governance        

The OECD reference papers outline that a democratic and accountable security system helps prevent the outbreak and recurrence of violent conflict and provide the basis of stability for economic and social development. This marks a major shift in donor attention as donors acknowledge the importance of these issues for governance and hence for creating the right conditions for poverty reduction.

2006

A Concept for European Community Support for Security Sector Reform        
The concept sets out principles and norms for the Community’s engagement in SSR, based on support in different countries and settings, relevant policy frameworks, outlining the rationale for SSR as an important part of Community support and ensuring more coordinated and strategic approaches to Community activities falling under the different policy instruments: recognition that SSR is a cross-cutting issue. 
 

2007

Statement by the President of the United Nations Security Council ‘The Maintenance of International Peace and Security: the role of the Security Council in supporting security sector reform’ 
The Security Council stresses that reforming the security sector in post-conflict environments is critical to the consolidation of peace and stability, promoting poverty reduction, the rule of law and good governance. A professional, effective and accountable security sector, and accessible and impartial law-enforcement and justice sectors are equally necessary to laying the foundations for peace and sustainable development.
 

2008

UNSG Report ‘Securing Peace and Development’

The Report reflects the growing importance of SSR at the global level and the need for the international community to address it in an efficient, effective, coherent and coordinated manner. The report underlines that security, human rights and development are interdependent and mutually reinforcing conditions for sustainable peace, the fundamental elements of which can only be achieved within a rule of law framework. 

2009

UNSG Report ‘Peacebuilding in the Immediate Aftermath of Conflict’      
The immediate post-conflict period offers a window of opportunity to provide basic security, deliver peace dividends, shore up and build confidence in the political process, strengthen core national capacity to lead peacebuilding efforts and lay the foundations for sustainable development. If countries quickly develop a vision and strategy to address these objectives early on, the chances of sustainable peace increase. 
 

2010

Statement by the President of the United Nations Security Council ‘Maintenance of International Peace and Security: optimizing the use of preventive diplomacy tools’
The Security Council reaffirms the important role of women in the prevention and resolution of conflicts and in peacebuilding, and reiterates its call to increase the equal participation, representation and full involvement of women in preventive diplomacy efforts and all related decision-making processes with regard to conflict resolution and peacebuilding in line with resolutions 1325 (2000), 1820 (2008), 1888 (2009), and 1889 (2009).
 

2011

World Development Report 2011: Conflict, Security and Development     
The Report looks across global disciplines and experiences to offer some ideas and practical recommendations on how to move beyond conflict and fragility and secure development. Key findings include: institutional legitimacy is the key to stability; investing in citizen security, justice, and jobs is essential to reducing violence; confronting these challenges effectively means that institutions need to change. 
 

2013

UNSG Report ‘Securing States and Societies: strengthening the United Nations comprehensive support to security sector reform’   
This Report contains a number of recommendations on how the United Nations, Member States and partners can further support security sector reform through encouraging inclusive and sustainable national ownership; promoting security service delivery; building capacities for reform that better link component-specific and sector-wide initiatives; expanding and deepening partnerships; encouraging dialogue and knowledge-sharing; and further enhancing inter-agency coherence and coordination.   

2013

African Union Policy Framework on Security Sector Reform    
In this Framework, the African Union reiterates its recognition of, and commitment to, existing normative frameworks on SSR, particularly those developed by the United Nations and other multilateral actors. The AU policy framework on SSR emanates from the recognition of the continuing gap between existing approaches to SSR and deficits in the delivery and governance of security in many AU Member States. 

2014

UN Security Council Resolution 2151: The Maintenance of International Peace and Security: Security Sector Reform: challenges and opportunities 
The UNSC adopts its first stand-alone resolution on security sector reform, reaffirming the importance of SSR in stabilizing countries recovering from conflict and resolving to prioritise reform aspects in both peacekeeping and special political missions. The Council reiterates the centrality of national ownership for security sector reform processes, recognising the need to consider host country perspectives in the formulation of relevant mandates.

2015

UNGA passes the Sustainable Development Goals 
In Transforming our world: the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, the United Nations formally establishes the link between security and sustainable development:  “Sustainable development cannot be realized without peace and security; and peace and security will be at risk without sustainable development.” The 2030 Agenda includes Sustainable Development Goal 16 on creating peace, justice and strong institutions, which shares many common objectives as SSG/R.

2015

European Commission and High Representative of the European Union for Foreign and Security Policy and Vice-President of the Commission on capacity building in support of security and developments CBSD 28 April 2015
The EU recognises that creating the political, social and economic conditions for stability are essential for a country's security and a prerequisite for development. Consequently, capacity building – including institution building, security sector reform and human capability development – has become a key element in the support the EU offers to third countries.
 

2016

Adoption of the twin Resolutions of the UN GA and the UNSC on ‘Sustaining Peace’
Resolutions of the General Assembly (A/RES/70/262) and Security Council (S/RES/2282) emphasize the importance of “preventing the outbreak, escalation, continuation and recurrence of conflict” and shift the peacebuilding focus of the UN, so that not only the symptoms, but also the root causes of conflicts are addressed. They stress that a professional, accountable and effective security sector is critical to consolidation of peace and stability, promoting poverty reduction, rule of law, access to justice and good governance, further extending legitimate state authority, and preventing countries from lapsing or relapsing into conflict. 

2016

European Commission and HR/VP Joint Communication ‘Elements for an EU-wide strategic framework to support security sector reform’
This new policy framework aims to enhance the EU's effectiveness in promoting and supporting partner countries' efforts to ensure security for individuals and the state. Based on the assumption that security should be anchored in respect for the rule of law, human rights and good governance principles, the framework applies to all EU actors, instruments and contexts. 
 

2016

Council of the European Union ‘Council conclusions on EU-wide strategic framework to support Security Sector Reform (SSR)
The Council calls on all EU actors to move towards swift implementation of the EU SSR framework by : applying the principles of the EU SSR framework in planning and implementation; improving understanding of the security sector; developing 'coordination matrices' based on common priorities ; coordinating activities; developing joint monitoring, evaluation and risk management guidelines; and ensuring the availability of SSR expertise.
 

2018

United Nations - World Bank Report: Pathways for Peace: Inclusive Approaches to Preventing Violent Conflict
The UN and World Bank together emphasize the key role security sector governance can play in understanding and preventing violent conflict. In particular, they identify a lack of access to justice and security as one of the four main arenas of contestation wherein violent conflict is most likely to escalate or take root.  Moreover, the report notes that reform of the security sector can play a key role in building the credibility, legitimacy, and effectiveness of a society. 
 

2018

OSCE parliamentary resolution on SSG/R
Acknowledging that SSG/R is an integral part of the OSCE’s comprehensive approach to security it adopts a resolution that called on its executive structures and participating States to increase their efforts towards the development of a common understanding of SSG/R, and a corresponding OSCE-wide strategic approach to support nationally led SSG/R processes.
 

2019

First ever OSCE Secretary General’s Report on SSG/R 
The report provides an overview of the progress made toward an OSCE-wide strategic approach to support nationally led SSG/R processes. It also makes recommendations for OSCE executive structures and participating States to support a more coherent and strategic approach in this field. 
 

2020

UNSCR 2538 on women peacekeepers 
On the 20th anniversary of UNSCR 1325, the United Nations Security Council emphasizes the critical importance of women’s involvement in peace processes. It calls on States, the UN and regional organizations “to strengthen their collective efforts to promote the full, effective, and meaningful participation of uniformed and civilian women in peacekeeping operations at all levels and in all positions, including in senior leadership positions”.