Phase I (2009 - 2010): Research on Security Sector Reform

 

After the successful training sessions on most important aspects of security sector, 15 researchers involved in this network prepared under the mentorship of IDM, 5 research and policy documents after undergoing revision process by senior security experts of DCAF. These products are presented in this publication. Within this process IDM in close consultations with the members of the network established a working plan related to the activities and the outcomes of this initiative that for the first time is taking place in Albania. The first product which opened the process of a series of research studies on different aspects of security sector in Albania was the “Backgrounder on Human Security in Albania”. This document constitutes a brief analysis of the standards related to human security components in regards to the Albanian context. On the one hand this initiative served as a sound test for the network to involve all the members depending on respective backgrounds and interests, working together for a joint product related to security sector research. On the other hand, it established a milestone for further research in this unexplored field. In difference from the first document, for the rest of the research, the members of SMN were divided in 4 main groups based on their interests and background.

The final documents each group was engaged to research in are as follows:

1. Assessment of the National Security Coordinating Authority

2. Developing the National Security Concept

3. Encouraging a Performance Based Management model

4. Gender in Security Sector.

The first document covered various issues related to constitutional and political contexts of the institutions governing the security sector, as well as analyzing the role and capacities of institutions in drafting and monitoring of implementation of national security policies etc. The study was finalized with a set of recommendations concerning the improvement of the coordinating authority of national security. The second group comprised by three independent researchers came up with a policy brief on how to develop the national security concept for Albania. Considering that the current National Security Strategy is outdated as in need to be revised since 2007, this study analyzes the main trends and implications to be taken into account on the future efforts to the national security policies for the future.

The third product of the group focuses on the institutional efficiency and management through launching a “performance based management” model. Work on this topic will remain a top priority for the Network even in the coming years.

The last group, based on the interests, knowledge and expertise of its members have focused on the gender perspective of security sector reform. The documents provides concrete recommendations and solutions for strengthening the awareness and sensitivity on gender aspects of security sector governance and development..

The launch of each document was done in a series of public events - roundtables with the participation of representatives from civil society, public institutions, international community, and academia. This aimed to present to the general public the research work conducted in the framework of this project. In order to influence the policy and decision making audiences in different levels, IDM endeavoured to ensure not only a wide media coverage of the public events, but most importantly, qualitative participation of stakeholders and interest groups in the meetings. Vivid discussions and debates were conducted, that helped the process of awareness raising in regards to the issues under discussion.