This Security Sector Reform (SSR) Paper offers a universal and analytical perspective on the linkages between Security Sector Governance SSG/SSR (SSG/R) and Sustainable Development Goal 16 (SDG 16), focusing on conflict and post-conflict settings as well as transitional and consolidated democracies.

Against the background of development and security literature traditionally maintaining separated and compartmentalized presence in both academic and policymaking circles, it maintains that the contemporary security- and development-related challenges are inextricably linked, requiring effective measures with an accurate understanding of the nature of these challenges. In that sense, SDG 16 is surely a good step in the right direction.

This manuscript attempts to bridge the gap between the development and security literature by offering a conceptual framework for the interlinkages between SSG/R with SDG 16, tying the two together more closely using human security as a linkage. After comparing and contrasting SSG/R and SDG 16, this manuscript argues that human security lies at the heart of the nexus between the 2030 Agenda of the United Nations (UN) and SSG/R.

It highlights the importance of the principles of democratic oversight and accountability as well as a participative approach and local ownership in making sure that SSR effectively contributes to the accomplishment of SDG 16 targets.

About the Series

The SSR Papers provide innovative and provocative analysis on the challenges of security sector governance and reform. Combining theoretical insight with detailed empiracally-driven explorations of state-of-the-art themes, SSR Papers bridge conceptual and pragmatic concerns. Authored, edited and peer reviewed by SSR experts, the series provides in-depth discussion of a governance-driven reform agenda, addressing the overlapping interests of researchers, policy-makers and practitioners in the fields of development, peace and security

All of the SSR Papers are available for reading and download on the DCAF website.