Anmeldung: Online Registration
Sprache: Englisch/German

As evidenced by previous transition experiences in Europe, Latin America, Africa and Asia, security sector reform (SSR) can facilitate democratisation, and democratisation can facilitate post-authoritarian SSR. The de-politicisation, modernisation and professionalisation of the military, police, intelligence and other security forces are key concerns of SSR processes as is the establishment of legitimate and responsible management and oversight institutions. In this presentation, the focus will be on recent examples of countries in transition to democracy (e.g in the Balkans, Eastern Europe, Southeast Asia) and how the security forces have facilitated, stalled or obstructed the establishment of a new democratic government.

Questions that will be addressed are: Why are security forces willing to give up power? How do they manage to keep a grip on key sectors of society? Why should the new democratic government  negotiate with the military leaders? Should the new government grant impunity to the security forces for crimes commited in the past? What is the impact of transition to democracy on neighbouring countries? What is the interest of global powers (e.g. USA, EU, China) to promote or obstruct democratisation? The presentation will be based on real existing case studies. Chatham House rules apply (non-attribution).