Briefing Paper

1325 and Policing in West Africa: Interrogating the Sierra Leonean Case

Apparently the UNSCR 1325 presents the only framework that emphasizes the progressive role that policewomen can play in the peacebuilding and post-conflict reconstruction process. Despite limitations identified in this Policy Brief, there has been some progress in the number of policewomen recruited into the Sierra Leonean police. This brief examined the political efforts towards the full implementation of Resolution 1325, especially in the security agencies. Specifically, this has been accomplished by discussing the challenges associated with the recruitment, selection and promotion of female officers and how their male peers and the police institution act in ways that restrict their entry and advancement. Some progress has been made so far with regard to the recruitment, selection and deployment of policewomen, but there remains a need to strengthen the legal frameworks for equal participation.