Africa: Building Armies And Police That Protect, Not Abuse

Accra — "Liberia is building a new army and we are very strict regarding its standards," says Lieutenant Eric Dennis, who teaches international humanitarian law to recruits. In a country where previous armies committed widespread atrocities, he hopes to help build one that "will never tarnish the image of our army and our country. We want an army of professional soldiers."

From South Africa to Burundi and Cote d'Ivoire, other countries in Africa are also seeking to restructure and professionalize their armies, police and intelligence services. The process is fraught with difficulties, but is increasingly seen as vital for the continent's long-term peace and stability.

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