From Fragility to Resilience: Rethinking Security in Sierra Leone Through a Community- Driven Approach

Sierra Leone, a nation forged in the crucible of a brutal civil war (1991-2002), has made significant strides in rebuilding its state institutions and establishing peace. However, its journey remains a testament to the persistent challenges of post-conflict state-building. Endemic poverty, political fragility, corruption, and external shocks like the 2014-2016 Ebola epidemic and the COVID-19 pandemic have continually tested the nation's resilience. Traditional state-centric security sector reform (SSR), while necessary, has proven insufficient in addressing the multifaceted and localized nature of insecurity that citizens experience daily. This article argues that the path from fragility to sustainable resilience in Sierra Leone lies in a fundamental rethinking of the security paradigm. It posits that a community-driven approach, which empowers local actors and integrates informal justice and safety mechanisms with the formal state apparatus, is not merely an alternative but an essential component for building lasting peace. Through a comprehensive review of existing literature, policy documents, and case studies, this article examines the limitations of the top-down security model and analyses the effectiveness and potential of community-based security structures. It concludes that a hybrid security governance model, fostering synergy between state and community actors, is critical for addressing the root causes of insecurity and cultivating a resilient social fabric capable of withstanding future crises.