Roundtable - Deepening citizen engagement in security sector reform and governance in transitioning Gambia: making a case for civic discourse and dialogue

The round table brought together several experts on the subject, members of civil society, government representatives and the defence and security forces. The roundtable discussion underscored the essential role of continued collaboration and dialogue among government entities, civil society organizations (CSOs), and security institutions in advancing Security Sector Reform (SSR) in The Gambia. The discussions revealed that while there have been significant strides in transitioning to a more democratic and accountable security sector, the journey is far from complete. Key challenges identified include the urgent need for mindset shifts within the police force to embrace community policing principles, the revision and enhancement of outdated legal frameworks, and the effective implementation of transparency laws, such as the Access to Information (ATI) law. The discussions also highlighted the importance of building trust between the security sector and the communities it serves, which can be achieved through ongoing human rights training, open communication, and the establishment of oversight mechanisms to ensure accountability. Moreover, the need for adequate resources, both financial and institutional, was emphasized as crucial for the success of SSR initiatives. Ultimately, the path forward requires a concerted effort from all stakeholders to build a security sector that is not only responsive and accountable but also deeply committed to upholding the rule of law and protecting the rights of all citizens. This comprehensive approach is vital for ensuring long-term peace, stability, and democratic governance in The Gambia.