23 April 2018: A roundtable meeting on reform of the security sector addressed both the international frameworks represented by SDG 16 on peaceful and inclusive societies and the New Deal for Engagement in Fragile States. Amina J. Mohammed, UN Deputy Secretary-General, stressed that security sector reform (SSR) is a core element of prevention and sustaining peace, as it would allow people to live their lives free from fear.

The High-level Roundtable took place on 23 April 2018, in New York, US, on the eve of the UNGA’s High-level Meeting on Peacebuilding and Sustaining Peace. The Permanent Missions of Slovakia and South Africa co-organized the meeting, on behalf of the Group of Friends of Security Sector Reform.

Mohammed, citing the UN Security Council, noted that security sector reform is the cornerstone of peace and sustainable development and is also important for conflict prevention. Recalling that the UN has supported more than 15 peacekeeping and special political missions since 2007, she highlighted needs in post-conflict situations for enhanced governance structures, specialized expertise and equipment, assessment and training capacities, and infrastructure. She noted that security sector reform will contribute to stabilization efforts in post-conflict situations and prevent further conflicts from erupting, adding that the UN is already supporting such efforts in Burkina Faso, the Gambia and Lesotho, for example, through capacity building, strategic and technical advice to Governments, and facilitation of national security dialogues and establishment of national security councils and reform processes.

Miroslav Lajčák, UNGA President, highlighted the need for good governance, effectiveness, accountability and professionalism. [UN press release] [UN Deputy Secretary-General’s remarks] [Meeting webcast]