The feasibility of security sector reform and access to justice in Sudan: Challenges and prospects

Abstract

This article examines security sector reform (SSR) in Sudan and provides an overview of some of the ongoing challenges in the operationalisation of SSR in Sudan's post-war economy. The author argues that security providers such as the military and police function within a highly political and undemocratic milieu that lacks transparency and does not have the capacity to expose the government's lack of commitment to combating impunity and punishing human rights violators and violations. With the attendant shortcomings in security, such as the blatant disregard for the rule of law and the state's failure to guarantee security of its people, undertaking SSR in the Sudan is a huge task. In conclusion the article recommends processes for a comprehensive overhaul of the security apparatus of the Sudanese state which would subject the security (military and police) apparatus to democratic control and oversight as well as making them accountable for their actions.