Kasper Hoffmann
Non-state security actors are growing increasingly important in fragile and conflict-affected states in Africa. This has led to a multiplication of informal security arrangements between security providers, such as vigilantes, local militias, faith-based organisation and private security companies, individual army units, and citizens.
By their very constitution such situations of multi-layered security provision is highly complex and fluctuating. The rise of non-state armed actors in fragile states is in most cases linked to the decreasing legitimacy of the state in large segments of its populations due to for instance to its inability or unwillingness to provide basic public services to its citizenry, the brutal behaviour of its security forces, or its politics of exclusion.
Constructive engagement in such contexts by partner states requires a sound analysis of the current situation, and thorough understanding of the underlying causes of the rise of non-state security actors. Moreover, it should be acknowledged that multi-layered security is a reality to be reckoned with, and that security provision is part and parcel of the political processes and power struggles taking place in various contexts. Understanding the this multi-layered security is key for realistically assessing possibilities and challenges for international support.
The report recommends that contributing to the stabilisation of fragile – or conflict-affected states should go beyond capacity building, especially if this is done by strengthening the capacities of armed forces which have limited legitimacy. Crucial to the stabilisation of fragile states is the linking of security goals with domestic political processes of local reconciliation, inclusion and reconstruction.
