Event- The Role of Civil Society in Security

RUSI will be hosting the following event of the Global Facilitation Network for Security Sector Reform (GFN-SSR) on the 28th of June in London:

'It is generally acknowledged that a vibrant civil society is important for sustainable and meaningful development. Security is often cited as a priority concern by the poorest and most marginalised, and the provision of a safe and secure environment for development is a vital function for governments worldwide. However, there is little substantive discussion or clear meaning behind how civil society actors can influence decisions on security and defence involving the military, police, intelligence services and judiciary. Some would argue that the role of civil society is little understood by the military and defence sectors, which have traditionally been resistant to public input. Others would state that civil society doesn’t have either the necessary expertise or interest needed to provide an informed input into what is a uniquely specialised policy area.

This half-day seminar aims to begin addressing this issue by broadening the parameters of the current debate to explore grassroots civil society perspectives and participatory approaches to the provision of security.'