HC Deb 04 November 1998 vol 318 c580W
Dr. Tonge

To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what is her Department's policy on support for security sector reform initiatives in post-conflict countries. [58187]

Clare Short

The Department for International Development (DFID) recognises the special need for security sector reform in post-conflict countries, especially when that sector has been responsible for creating the conflict. Complete restructuring may be needed in some cases. This may include extensive demobilisation of surplus troops which often requires external support, especially in poorer countries. Poor countries need security and stability to be restored promptly if development and progress towards the elimination of poverty are to be resumed. DFID is currently studying its approach to security sector reform in order to strengthen this work.

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