Columbia International Affairs Online: Policy Briefs

CIAO DATE: 07/2009

The Role of the Ministerial Advisor in Security Sector Reform: Navigating Institutional Terrains

Liz Panarelli

April 2009

United States Institute of Peace

Abstract

International actors in Security Sector Reform (SSR) are increasingly taking on roles as "advisors" to Ministries of Interior, Defense, and Justice. Rather than directly implement changes necessary for SSR, these advisors must persuasively articulate suggestions to their local counterparts. Advisors' success depends on their ability to convey recommendations in a manner that makes change acceptable to their advisees.