Reform of the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s security sector must be the top priority for Kinshasa and its international supporters. Rebuilding the national army is far behind schedule, and newly integrated units are often themselves a security hazard. The police are no match for local militias in much of the country. Two particular challenges loom large: the security services must be able to maintain order during national elections in April or May and reduce the staggering mortality rate due to conflict. Far more must be done to create an effective unified army with a single chain of command. Police reform must change a patchwork approach that largely neglects the countryside. All other development and progress – from elections to humanitarian assistance to economic activity – depend on establishing and maintaining a secure environment.